Ryan Alebiosu: Why Rangers Are Ready to Pay £5 Million for Blackburn Star

Super Eagles and Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu has become a prime target for Scottish giants Rangers as the summer transfer window approaches, according to Afrik‑Foot.

The Nigerian full‑back had a breakthrough season with the English Championship club, making 40 appearances in all competitions after joining Rovers last summer. His performances helped Blackburn avoid relegation and earned him a place in Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where the team finished with a bronze medal.

Ryan Alebiosu in action for Nigeria. Photo by IMAGO

Rangers, who finished the season without a major trophy and fell behind Celtic and Hearts in the title race, are looking to strengthen their squad. They have already secured the signing of Scotland international Lawrence Shankland from Hearts, who is expected to join once the transfer window opens on 15 June.

Why Rangers are keen on signing Ryan Alebiosu

Sports Boom via GIVEMESPORT reports that Rangers have identified Alebiosu as one of their top transfer targets. The club’s right‑back position is set to be weakened by the departures of captain James Tavernier, who is expected to leave after 11 years, and Max Aarons, who spent last season on loan at Ibrox and will return to Bournemouth.

Rangers defender James Tavernier. Copyright: ImagoxAlexxToddx

Alebiosu’s style of play aligns with the tactical system under head coach Danny Rohl. He offers defensive solidity while also contributing to attack, mirroring Tavernier’s role. The defender has already gained experience in Scottish football, spending the second half of the 2024‑25 season on loan at St Mirren.

The presence of fellow Nigerian defender Emmanuel Fernandez at Rangers could also help Alebiosu settle quickly. Rangers are also interested in young Nigerian defender Akpe Victory, which could give the club three Nigerians in their backline next season.

However, competition for Alebiosu’s signature is mounting. Italian side Genoa has long admired the defender, and West Ham United are monitoring the situation as they look to rebuild after relegation from the Premier League last season.

Blackburn Rovers Ryan Alebiosu in the Championship. Copyright: ImagoxSimonxRoex

Rangers are unlikely to face difficulties agreeing on personal terms, but they must still negotiate a transfer fee with Blackburn. The club has reportedly set an asking price of around £5 million. If an agreement is reached, Alebiosu could join Ibrox in the coming weeks.