Rangers “Hopeful” of £75K‑per‑Week Move for Conor Coady as Rothwell Deal Closes
Rangers have intensified their summer recruitment drive under manager Russell Martin, and insiders say they are “hopeful” that a deal can be struck to bring Conor Coady from Leicester City to Ibrox once the club completes the signing of Joe Rothwell. The move, reported by STV Sports presenter Raman Bhardwaj, would represent a major statement of intent as Rangers set for signing.
Double Signing in the Works: Rothwell and Coady
Just days after confirming Rothwell’s capture from Bournemouth, Rangers are turning their attention to bolstering their defence.
According to Bhardwaj, the signing of Rothwell has cleared the path for a second incoming transfer — with Coady firmly on the radar . The former England international is seen as an ideal fit: experienced, composed, and a natural leader capable of marshaling the defensive line under Martin’s possession-based style.
Why Coady Makes Sense
Experience & pedigree– At 32, Coady brings over 300 Premier League appearances and ten England caps. He captained Wolverhampton Wanderers and spent successful spells with Liverpool, Everton, and Leicester.
Tactical fit– Martin, who previously guided Coady at England youth levels, envisions a high‑line possession game. Coady’s ball-playing ability and organizational skills in central defense are seen as pivotal.
Leadership boost – Jermain Defoe, a club legend, has publicly backed the move, describing Coady as a “perfect fit” and highlighting his natural captaincy and professional character. Former Scotland striker Kevin Gallacher also suggested Coady could outperform the benchmark set by Celtic’s Cameron Carter‑Vickers.
Financials & Logistics
While at Leicester, Coady reportedly earned around £75,000 per week. If the move materializes, he may need to take a substantial pay cut—reports suggest up to £50K per week off his current wage, although exact terms are still to be determined ([ibroxinsider.com][5]). That kind of flexibility indicates a player who’s committed to playing regularly and buying into Martin’s project.
Negotiations are said to be in “advanced talks,” with Rangers hopeful that a modest fee—linked to the final year of Coady’s contract—and the player’s willingness will smooth proceedings.
What This Means for Rangers
Defensive solidity – Coady’s arrival would fill a long-standing need at the back. An organized, experienced center-back can galvanize the defensive unit and bring calm under pressure.
Champions League readiness– As Rangers build toward their July qualifiers, Coady’s presence could prove vital in European fixtures and the later stages of the Scottish Premiership.
Mentorship & spine – His addition, together with Rothwell in midfield, would help solidify a central spine: defense, midfield, and leadership—all crucial in Martin’s vision for a competitive, possession-oriented squad.
Timeline & Next Moves
Joe Rothwell’s deal is virtually complete, including medicals and contract terms.
Rangers are now “hopeful” that Coady’s deal will follow soon—a move that would likely happen ahead of the Champions League qualifier later this month.
The club’s ambition remains clear: secure foundational signings and then pivot to younger talent for long-term growth.
Final Take
If completed, the signings of Rothwell and Coady would form a compelling statement of intent from Rangers: prioritizing experienced, tactically adept, and character‑rich players to underpin Russell Martin’s evolving project. With the season fast approaching, all eyes are now on Ibrox as the club looks to secure these pivotal transfers.