Rangers are reportedly closing in on a move for 29-year-old left-back Harry Toffolo, with the former Nottingham Forest defender expected to pass his medical without issue.
Injury expert Dr Rajpal Brar has confirmed Toffolo’s recent fitness history is positive, despite limited game time last season, stating:
“He’s not suffered significant injuries in recent seasons, which is always impressive. I see him facing no issues in clearing his medical.”
Toffolo, a free agent following his release from Forest, has been eager to secure a new challenge. Rangers, meanwhile, are actively pursuing a new left-back option amid uncertainty surrounding Ridvan Yilmaz’s future. The Turkish defender has been linked with a return to his homeland, with Galatasaray and Besiktas reportedly interested.
Jefte, currently the club’s first-choice, remains in place, but the addition of Toffolo could prompt a reshuffle in the squad—particularly with Champions League qualifiers fast approaching and Martin keen to streamline his options.
A Solid CV with EFL and Premier League Experience
Toffolo brings with him a wealth of experience across England’s top tiers. His most impactful stints came with Huddersfield Town (99 appearances, 9 goals, 15 assists) and Lincoln City (85 appearances, 4 goals, 13 assists), where he established himself as a dynamic, forward-thinking full-back.
Across a career spanning ten professional clubs—including Rotherham United, Scunthorpe United, and Doncaster Rovers—Toffolo has developed a reputation for consistency and attacking contribution from deep.
His time at Nottingham Forest included Premier League appearances, though first-team opportunities became limited over the last campaign. That hasn’t deterred Rangers, who see his blend of Championship pedigree and durability as ideal cover—if not competition—for Jefte.
Yilmaz Likely to Depart If Deal Finalised
Should the deal for Toffolo be completed, it could accelerate Yilmaz’s exit. The Turkish international has struggled for consistency since arriving at Ibrox, and with interest from his homeland gathering pace, Rangers may look to offload to avoid a bloated wage bill.
Given Martin’s intent to forge a balanced and functional squad ahead of European qualifiers, carrying three senior left-backs appears unlikely. Toffolo’s arrival would offer a more proven alternative to the often-injured Yilmaz and a safer option ahead of a demanding domestic and continental schedule.
Writer’s View
This move ticks a lot of boxes for Rangers. Toffolo may not be a marquee signing, but he is exactly the sort of reliable, battle-hardened defender clubs like Rangers need when juggling league ambitions and European commitments. His injury-free record and impressive stats in the Championship suggest he can adapt to the Scottish Premiership with ease.
More importantly, it allows Russell Martin to make a clean break from the uncertainty surrounding Ridvan Yilmaz. If Toffolo slots in alongside Jefte, or even supplants him, the left-back situation becomes far less volatile. With a Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos just days after their Hartlepool friendly, stability at the back could be the difference between progress and early disappointment.
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