Rangers have been handed a timely transfer boost in their ongoing search for left-back depth, following a notable squad decision in Greece during AEK Athens’ 3-2 pre-season victory over Dutch side PEC Zwolle on Sunday, 26 July.
Ibrox recruitment chiefs are actively exploring the market for further additions ahead of the upcoming campaign, with a cover for left-back Tuur Rommens also on the agenda.
Scottish full-back James Penrice, who earned a move to Athens in 2025 following a stellar spell with Hearts, has frequently featured on the club’s radar.
Sunday’s pre-season action in Greece offered fresh, tangible encouragement that a deal could prove viable this summer.
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Pre-season omission points to changing role for Penrice
During AEK Athens’ 3-2 friendly win over PEC Zwolle, direct positional rival Stavros Pilios was handed the full 90 minutes at left-back.
Despite being spotted warming up, the 27-year-old remained on the bench as an unused substitute while five other players were introduced during the second half.
For a player aiming to secure regular first-team football, watching his primary positional competitor play the entire match indicates that his starting spot in Athens is far from guaranteed heading into the new season.
This aligns with rumours that AEK boss Marko Nikolic is not convinced by the former Hearts defender.
Conflicting signals from player camp amid Rangers talk
The Sunday development follows conflicting reports originating from Greek media regarding Rangers’ interest.
Last week, journalist Antonis Oikonomidis of Greek outlet SPORT24 indicated that Penrice’s representative camp had played down reports of active dialogue with Ibrox.
However, there have also been claims in the Greek media that the Gers may step up their pursuit of Penrice after Nikolic made up his mind on the Scot.
While public denials from player representatives are standard during transfer windows, actual matchday selections often tell the clearer story.
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If Penrice finds himself second-choice in Greece, the opportunity to return to the Scottish Premiership with Rangers could prove an enticing proposition.
Penrice’s complete lack of minutes against PEC Zwolle gives Rangers clear encouragement that AEK Athens may be open to business if a suitable proposal is presented.
With the Scottish Premiership season rapidly approaching, this Sunday development could accelerate discussions to provide much-needed balance to Derek McInnes‘ backline.
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