Philippe Clement plans January Rangers raid for summer flop Rothwell | OneFootball

Former Rangers boss Philippe Clement is plotting a January swoop for Joe Rothwell as he looks to pull Norwich City clear of Championship danger, sources say. The Belgian wants the midfielder for his promotion experience at Leeds and believes his composure can lift a struggling side. Rangers are said to be open to the move, aware that Rothwell’s game time has been limited under Danny Röhl. Philippe Clement Rangers transfer would be welcomed.

Clement knows of Rothwell from his brief time at Ibrox. He admired the midfielder’s technical discipline and saw leadership traits at Leeds when Rangers scouted him there that Norwich badly need. Rothwell is one of the few Rangers players with genuine Championship know-how, having featured in high-pressure promotion campaigns before. That background makes him a prime target for a coach who understands big demand.

Norwich struggles

Norwich sit close to the bottom and Clement’s arrival has been greeted with quiet optimism, much like fans felt when he first came to Rangers. He has already instilled structure and intensity but knows that experience counts when confidence fades. Rothwell offers calmness in possession, tactical nous and versatility. He can slot into a double pivot or push forward when required, giving Clement options across midfield.

Rangers would sanction the transfer if the deal suits both parties. Rothwell’s wages are manageable for Norwich and his value has dipped since joining from Bournemouth. Röhl prefers youthful energy in midfield and Rothwell’s opportunities have dried up, making an exit likely if Norwich make a concrete offer. It could be a straightforward loan with an option to buy, according to The Scotsman.

Norwich desperate for leadership

Norwich’s issues stem from a lack of control in midfield, something The Times recently highlighted when discussing Clement’s emphasis on tactical structure. Rothwell fits that plan perfectly. His experience at Leeds showed he can handle intensity and pressure while guiding younger teammates. Clement’s coaching relies on composure and technical clarity, which Rothwell brings in abundance.

Rangers would gain more than a transfer fee. Letting Rothwell go could open a spot for Bailey Rice or Connor Barron to feature more. Röhl’s squad has balance issues, and trimming senior players helps. Rothwell’s time at Rangers may end quietly, but his contribution remains respected. His move to Norwich would underline Clement’s faith in what he built at Ibrox.

Rangers balancing development and exits

For Rangers, this could mark another shift in Röhl’s rebuild. He is determined to streamline the squad and focus on younger players like Barron and Rice. Rothwell, though talented, sits on the fringe. A spell under Clement could benefit all involved. It would give the player minutes, free up salary space and allow Röhl to continue reshaping his core group.

Clement’s faith in Rothwell speaks volumes. The midfielder’s promotion-winning experience is rare in this Rangers squad, and Norwich could use that resilience in their fight to survive. Rothwell has the temperament to handle pressure and Clement knows exactly how to use him. Norwich’s challenge is severe, but Clement’s pursuit of old allies might just steady the ship.

If Norwich and Rangers agree terms soon, Philippe Clement Rangers transfer could see Rothwell wearing yellow and green before February. It would be a reunion of trust and purpose, a former Rangers manager turning again to the reliability of a player who has done it all before.