The Scottish Premiership transfer rumour mill is in full swing as Celtic and Rangers lead the charge for new talent, with a host of other clubs also active in the market. From La Liga strikers to League One play-off winners, here's the latest on who could be arriving and departing.
Celtic have entered the race for 21-year-old forward Alvaro Rodriguez, who has been impressing at Spanish side Elche since completing a permanent move from Real Madrid last summer. The Hoops join Dutch heavyweights Feyenoord, Ajax and PSV Eindhoven in expressing interest, highlighting the quality of the young attacker. Rodriguez's potential arrival would bolster a Celtic front line that has already shown strength, but competition from multiple Champions League regulars could complicate negotiations. The move signals Celtic's intent to invest in youthful potential with sell-on value, a strategy that has paid dividends in recent windows.
Meanwhile, League One play-off winners Bolton Wanderers are poised to sign Kilmarnock midfielder David Watson under freedom of contract, a move that limits the compensation the Scottish Premiership club will receive. The 21-year-old had options from Aberdeen, other top-flight Scottish clubs, and even Italy, but has opted for a fresh challenge south of the border. For Kilmarnock, losing a promising homegrown talent for a reduced fee is a familiar frustration, while Bolton gain a versatile midfielder as they prepare for life in the Championship.
Dundee's Luke Graham is at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war, with the 22-year-old centre-back eager to test himself in the Championship. An astonishing 43 clubs have reportedly shown interest, including Portsmouth, Derby County, Norwich City, and Preston North End from England, as well as European sides like Schalke, Valencia, and Red Bull Salzburg. Rangers have also emerged as serious contenders, with reports they are set to formalise a bid in the coming days, yet Dundee insist they have yet to receive any official offers. The situation underscores Graham's burgeoning reputation and the intense competition for his signature, but it also raises questions about when—or if—a concrete deal will materialise.
In a significant move already completed, Lawrence Shankland has joined Rangers without a transfer fee, activating a break clause in the contract he signed with Hearts just last summer. The former Hearts captain's departure on a free transfer is a blow to Tynecastle, robbing them of a proven goalscorer and leader. For Rangers, it's a low-risk, high-reward addition that adds depth to their attacking options as they chase domestic and European success. The fact that such a clause existed will anger Hearts fans, but it highlights the precarious nature of player contracts in modern football.
The future of Josh Windass remains a topic of debate, with conflicting claims emanating from both sides of the Atlantic. Some sources suggest a return to Rangers from Wrexham is a 'serious possibility', while Ibrox insiders have reportedly dismissed the chances. Similarly, the pursuit of Dan Neil is muddled: one report says Rangers are closing in on a deal for the Sunderland midfielder, but another states they are not close to an agreement and that Premier League interest exists. These contradictions are a reminder of the chaotic nature of the rumour mill, and fans must wait for official announcements before truly judging the club's business.
Rangers have also expressed strong interest in 24-year-old Djurgarden winger Oskar Fallenius, adding to the intrigue around their wide options. Meanwhile, their hopes of re-signing Mikey Moore on loan from Tottenham have been boosted by Spurs' plans to bring in Savinho from Manchester City—a domino effect that could benefit the Ibrox club. Across Glasgow, Celtic are involved in other storylines: Marcelo Saracchi has returned to Boca Juniors after a loan spell with no permanent offer forthcoming, while Lech Poznan are eager to secure Luis Palma on a permanent deal after their Polish title win. Additionally, Celtic right-back Alistair Johnston has touted his brother Malcolm for a European move following his exit from MLS side Portland Timbers, and there is interest from both Celtic and Rangers in Hacken winger Silas Andersen, though the player himself is targeting an £8.5m switch to Sporting Lisbon.
Elsewhere, Manchester City are exploring a deal to re-sign Northern Ireland goalkeeper Pierce Charles from Sheffield Wednesday following their relegation to League One; he had been linked with Rangers. Former Scotland forward Johnny Russell has declared he won't retire after his release by Dundee United, while Aberdeen's Stephen Robinson confirmed that new signings will be a collaborative effort between himself, sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel, and head of recruitment Darren Mowbray.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.