McInnes plot reunion: Rangers should secure former Kilmarnock defender

If a recent transfer update from Pete O’Rourke is believed to be true, Rangers are plotting a summer move for Corrie Ndaba. The Scotsman’s plot reunion with the former Kilmarnock defender could see the Gers secure his services before the window closes.

Strasbourg, a Ligue 1 outfit, and Turkish club Goztepe are also keeping close tabs on the versatile Lecce defender, adding competition to the chase. Both clubs have expressed interest, but the Rangers’ connection with the player may give them an edge.

The 26‑year‑old Republic of Ireland international progressed through Palmerstown, Cherry Orchard and Ipswich Town’s academy ranks before the latter sent him out on loan to non‑league clubs Hemel Hempstead Town and Chelmsford City for senior minutes. Those early spells in the English League system helped shape his defensive foundation.

After spells at Ayr United, Salford City, Burton Albion, Fleetwood Town and Kilmarnock, the East Ayrshire side made the move permanent in July 2024. A blistering season with Killie earned him a €930k transfer to Lecce last summer, but he managed only eight starts in sixteen appearances and has been listed as surplus at Stadio Via del Mare.

Ndaba emerged as a first‑team regular when Derek McInnes was in charge of Kilmarnock, and a reunion could be on the cards now that the Scotsman is the Ibrox boss. The former boss‑player link gives the Gers a clear advantage over the other suitors.

Rangers have lost left‑back options after the season‑long loans of Jayden Meghoma, Derek Cornelius and Max Aarons ended, leaving a void in the back line. Ndaba’s ability to play as a full‑back, wing‑back or centre‑half, combined with his physicality and aerial prowess, fits the manager’s 4‑4‑2 set‑up and could restore balance.

Should the deal go through, Rangers would add a versatile defensive ace to bolster a transitioning squad, while Ndaba would reunite with McInnes and gain a platform for regular first‑team football after falling out of favour at Lecce. The move promises stability for the Gers and a fresh start for the Irish defender.