Conor Coady Rangers Leicester City Premier League

Would Conor Coady Be A Good Signing for Rangers?

Jul 14, 2025 — 3 min read
Would Conor Coady Be A Good Signing for Rangers?
Conor Coady

Rangers are on the cusp of a significant squad overhaul under new manager Russell Martin and sporting director Kevin Thelwell. At the heart of their transfer ambitions is Leicester City’s experienced centre-back, Conor Coady, whose potential move to Ibrox has sparked excitement among fans and pundits alike. With advanced talks reportedly underway, the 32-year-old England international could be the key to bolstering Rangers’ defensive line and leadership core as they aim to challenge Celtic for the Scottish Premiership title and make a mark in European competitions.

Proven Leader

A Proven Leader with Premier League PedigreeConor Coady brings a wealth of experience to the table, having racked up over 400 appearances in England’s top three divisions, including nearly 200 in the Premier League. A product of Liverpool’s academy, Coady made his name at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he captained the side during their successful 2017–18 Championship campaign and subsequent Premier League seasons. His leadership qualities were further showcased when he earned 10 England caps and was part of the squad that reached the UEFA Euro 2020 final.

Coady’s time at Leicester City, where he joined in 2023, has been less illustrious due to the club’s relegation to the Championship. With only one year left on his contract and Leicester looking to trim their wage bill, the stage is set for Coady to seek a new challenge. Rangers, under Martin’s guidance, have identified him as a top target to address defensive frailties, particularly after conceding 15 more goals than rivals Celtic last season.

Why Rangers Want Coady

Russell Martin is keen to implement a possession-based, high-pressing style of play, and Coady’s skill set aligns perfectly with this vision. Known for his composure on the ball, Coady led the Premier League in accurate long passes during the 2019–20 season, a testament to his ability to build play from the back. His 90.4% pass completion rate in Wolves’ Championship-winning 2017–18 season further underscores his reliability in possession, making him an ideal fit for Martin’s system.

Beyond his technical attributes, Coady’s leadership is a major draw. Described as a “natural leader” by former teammate Jermain Defoe, Coady’s vocal presence and ability to organize a backline have been praised by managers like Nuno Espírito Santo and Sean Dyche. Former Championship rival Liam Ridgewell called him one of the “last of a dying breed” of old-school defenders who lead by example and aren’t afraid to engage with opponents verbally. With Rangers’ current squad criticized for lacking leadership in recent seasons, Coady could fill a critical void alongside captain James Tavernier.

The Transfer Talks: Progress and Challenges

Reports indicate that Rangers are in advanced negotiations with Leicester City to secure Coady’s signature, with all parties hopeful of finalizing the deal soon. The transfer is facilitated by Leicester’s financial constraints following their relegation, which has prompted them to consider moving high earners like Coady. A cut-price deal is likely, given his contract situation, with Rangers reportedly offering a two- to four-year contract to entice the 32-year-old.

However, the deal has faced hurdles. Leicester’s managerial uncertainty, following the sacking of Ruud van Nistelrooy, has slowed negotiations as the club addresses more pressing issues. Additionally, Coady would need to accept a wage cut from his current Leicester salary, though Rangers are prepared to offer a long-term deal and the allure of European football to sweeten the move. Interest from two unnamed Premier League clubs and a potential return to Wolves could complicate matters, but Coady’s enthusiasm for Rangers—highlighted by Defoe’s revelation that his “eyes lit up” at the prospect—suggests Ibrox is his preferred destination.

What Coady Brings to Ibrox

Coady’s potential arrival would mark a significant coup for Rangers, not just for his on-field contributions but also for his off-field impact. Defoe emphasized Coady’s understanding of Rangers’ stature, noting that he sees the club as “bigger than most Premier League clubs.” His experience captaining Wolves and leading Leicester through turbulent times could help instill the standards and mentality required to represent a club of Rangers’ magnitude.

Published by
Louis Lenehan
Louis Lenehan
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