Cyriel Dessers Set for Rangers Exit After Reaching Agreement with AEK Athens
Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers appears to be on the verge of completing a move away from Ibrox, with reports indicating he has agreed personal terms with reigning Greek champions AEK Athens. The Super Eagles forward, who joined the Glasgow giants last summer, is now poised for a fresh chapter in his career after just one season in Scottish football.
Dessers, who scored 22 goals across all competitions for Rangers during the 2023/24 season, has been linked with a move away from the club throughout the summer transfer window. While the Nigerian international initially expressed his desire to fight for his place under new boss Philippe Clement, it now seems a deal with AEK Athens has been set in motion.
Greek media outlets have reported that AEK and Dessers have reached a full agreement on personal terms, with only the finalization of a transfer fee between the two clubs remaining. Negotiations are said to be progressing positively, with both clubs optimistic that an agreement can be struck in the coming days. Rangers are believed to be open to the sale, as they continue reshaping their squad ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Dessers’ potential departure would mark the end of a mixed spell in Glasgow. Despite ending the season as Rangersโ top scorer, the 29-year-old faced criticism at times for inconsistent performances. However, his experience, physical presence, and knack for finding the net kept him in the frame for selection throughout the season.
The forward’s expected move to AEK Athens represents a significant opportunity. The Greek giants are preparing for another title defense and a potential Champions League qualification run, and they view Dessers as an ideal addition to bolster their attacking options.
For Rangers, Dessersโ exit could free up valuable funds and space in the squad as Clement looks to bring in players that align more closely with his vision. The club has already been active in the transfer market and is expected to remain busy in the coming weeks.
While the deal is yet to be officially confirmed, all indications point toward Dessers making the switch to Athens imminently. If finalized, it would bring an end to his brief yet eventful spell in Scottish football and offer him a new challenge in one of Europeโs competitive leagues.