McInnes Plot Reunion With This Former Kilmarnock Defender: Why Rangers Should Secure His Services | OneFootball

If a recent transfer update from Pete O’Rourke is believed to be true, Rangers are plotting a summer move for Corrie Ndaba. But they are not alone in the hunt, with Ligue 1 outfit Strasbourg and Turkish club Goztepe also keeping close tabs on the versatile Lecce defender.

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. Despite a few Cup appearances for the Tractor Boys, Ndaba spent his time away from Portman Road both north and south of the border on temporary stints. After spells at Ayr United, Salford City, Burton Albion, Fleetwood Town and Kilmarnock, the East Ayrshire side made the move permanent in July 2024.

Why Rangers Hold Advantage Over The Other Suitors

A blistering season with Killie earned him a €930k transfer to Lecce last summer. However, he struggled to make an impact for the Serie A strugglers, with just 8 starts in 16 appearances across competitions. They managed to maintain their top-flight status, but could listen to offers for the left-back, who has been surplus to requirements at Stadio Via del Mare.

NORTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 29: Idris Kanu of Northampton Town controls the ball watched by Corrie NDaba of Salford City during the Sky Bet League Two match between Northampton Town and Salford City at Sixfields on January 29, 2022 in Northampton, England. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)

Ndaba emerged as a first-team regular when Derek McInnes was in charge of Kilmarnock. A reunion could be on the cards, as the Gers must have an edge over their fellow suitors following the Scotsman’s appointment as the Ibrox boss. Primarily a fullback, the left-footed defensive ace has also featured as a wing-back or centre-half. His arrival would bring much-needed versatility, given their ongoing transition after a disappointing 2025-26 campaign.

What He Would Offer At Rangers Under His Former Boss

Rangers relied on Jayden Meghoma, Derek Cornelius and Max Aarons, who featured down the left before Tuur Rommens arrived in the January window. The Belgian has been exquisite ever since he earned a starting spot. But the departures of Meghoma, Cornelius and Aarons upon completing their season-long loans have left a void, which needs to be addressed with a fresh addition.

Cornelius and Aarons were rarely used as left-backs, with Meghoma the preferred choice until Rommens replaced him midway through the season. One steady alternative would suffice for the Glasgow giants, and Ndaba, known for his physicality, aerial prowess, adaptability across the backline, and defensive awareness, would bring stability to McInnes’ 4-4-2 set-up. The Irishman may lack the dynamic forward drive and crossing ability expected of a modern attacking fullback. Nevertheless, his game suits the manager’s style of play, which focuses on a highly structured, pragmatic system to deny central progression.