Bologna’s interest in Barron could unlock Rangers move for Ferguson

Rangers could hold a useful bargaining chip in their pursuit of Bologna captain Lewis Ferguson, with the Italian club still keen on Ibrox midfielder Connor Barron, according to the Daily Record.

The Serie A side have maintained a long-term interest in Barron dating back to his move from Aberdeen to Rangers in 2024, when Bologna reportedly asked him to hold off before he accepted an offer from Ibrox. The Record understands Bologna have continued to track the Scotland international closely and made an approach for him last season, only for the move to be rebuffed by former Rangers sporting director Kevin Thelwell.

At that stage, Rangers gave a firm no when Bologna enquired about Barron’s availability. However, the Italian club are said to still have him on their list, and the player’s camp is understood to be aware of the ongoing interest from Serie A.

McInnes keen on Barron and Ferguson connection

New Rangers manager Derek McInnes is reported to be an admirer of Barron, having overseen his development as he came through the ranks at Aberdeen. Whether Rangers would be willing to sanction a sale this summer remains to be seen.

McInnes also has history with Ferguson, having signed him from Hamilton and turned him into a key player during his time at Pittodrie. Ferguson has since gone on to become an important figure for both Bologna and Scotland, and was part of the Scotland squad at the World Cup.

Ferguson deal would be complex

Rangers have made an enquiry over Ferguson, who captains Bologna, but any deal is expected to be difficult to complete. The Record reports that Bologna value their skipper in eight figures, and that the midfielder also has strong interest from Serie A rivals Roma and Atalanta.

It remains unclear whether Rangers would have the finances to fund a move for Ferguson, though a deal could become more feasible if Belgian World Cup star Nicolas Raskin were to leave Ibrox. Raskin has been linked with Hull City, Atalanta and Real Betis in recent weeks.

Rangers also chasing Dragojevic

Elsewhere in their midfield business, Rangers remain keen on Partizan Belgrade’s Vanja Dragojevic. A bid of £3.8 million was turned down by the Serbian club last week, but the Ibrox side are continuing their pursuit of the player.

Read more: Rangers’ Dragojevic pursuit hinges on second Partizan transfer saga