Rangers have identified Hearts manager Derek McInnes as a leading candidate to replace Danny Rohl, who is expected to leave Ibrox this summer. Sources indicate that the Glasgow club has already initiated preliminary discussions with McInnes’s representatives.
McInnes Emerges as Top Contender
The 52-year-old has impressed Rangers’ hierarchy with his work at Tynecastle, where he has transformed Hearts into a competitive force in the Scottish Premiership. Under McInnes, Hearts have secured European qualification and developed a reputation for disciplined, attacking football.
Rangers’ interest comes as Rohl, who took charge in 2024, is reportedly attracting attention from clubs in England and Germany. The German manager’s tenure at Ibrox has been marked by mixed results, including a Scottish Cup win but a disappointing league campaign.
Compensation Package a Key Factor
Negotiations with Hearts could prove complex, as McInnes signed a contract extension until 2028 earlier this year. Rangers may need to pay a significant compensation fee to secure his release. Hearts chairman Ann Budge has previously stated that the club would not stand in the way of a manager seeking a move, but only if the terms are right.
McInnes, a former Rangers player, has been linked with the Ibrox job previously. He was considered for the role in 2023 before Rohl’s appointment. His familiarity with the club and the demands of the Old Firm rivalry make him an attractive option.
Other Candidates in the Frame
While McInnes is the frontrunner, Rangers are also monitoring other managers, including former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou, who is currently at Tottenham Hotspur, and Belgian coach Karel Geraerts. However, McInnes’s availability and Scottish experience give him an edge.
Rangers are keen to make an appointment quickly to allow the new manager time to shape the squad for the upcoming season. The club’s board is expected to hold further talks with McInnes in the coming days.
