Rangers Leading The Race For This Centre-back: Why They Must Rope Him In | OneFootball

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Rangers are keeping close tabs on Akpe Victory ahead of a potential summer move. Clubs from Germany, Spain and France have scouted the Zalaegerszegi centre-back, while Portuguese giants Sporting CP also made an approach to secure his services. But the Light Blues are leading the race, as they are preparing a bid in excess of €5m in the coming days.

The 19-year-old Nigerian youngster left his hometown last year and joined the Lithuanian outfit, FK Banga. His progress caught the eyes of Zalaegerszegi, and the Hungarian side tied him down in January in an initial two-and-a-half-year deal, with an option for a further year.

Despite a heartbreak against Ferencváros in the Magyar Kupa final, Zalaegerszegi are expected to secure a ‘top six’ league finish. Victory has featured regularly since his winter arrival, making 15 appearances across competitions [stats via Fotmob]. His rise has grabbed the attention of several European outfits, and the Gers, likely to undergo another busy window, are stepping up the chase for the teenage defender.

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND – MAY 04: Pierre Landry Kaboré of Heart of Midlothian battles for possession with Nasser Djiga of Rangers during the William Hill Premiership match between Heart of Midlothian and Rangers at Tynecastle Park on May 04, 2026 in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)

The Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers-led takeover was a breath of fresh air when they made a significant investment towards rebuilding the squad. But the decision to appoint Russell Martin was a catastrophe, as he was dismissed after only 122 days in the managerial role. Danny Rohl rebuilt the rhythm and brought them back to the title race. However, a dismal final few gameweeks derailed their campaign.

Why Rangers Should Tie Down The Teenager

The split-phase collapse has now jeopardised Rohl’s future. Nevertheless, the owners are expected to invest again, with several positions needing reinforcements, including the defensive third. Although Emmanuel Fernandez has been a revelation since his arrival last summer, John Souttar’s mediocrity remains a serious concern in the heart of the backline.

Nasser Djiga, on loan from Wolves, is likely to return to Molineux, as Rangers are not willing to meet his £9m valuation. Forgotten Derek Cornelius would return to Marseille, failing to stake a claim in the manager’s plans. Leon King is out of contract next month, and the club should look to snap up at least two new centre-backs to restore depth and quality, as well as retaining Fernandez despite growing interest in the Nigerian south of the border.

Victory is hailed for his aerial and physical supremacy, composure and efficiency while organising the defensive line. His passing game should improve with time, and the Light Blues would have another sensational talent if they win the race for the teenager.