Barry Ferguson Aims Dig at Celtic as Rangers Close In on Their January Target

Former Rangers captain and interim manager Barry Ferguson has suggested that a winter loan return to Ibrox could be an ideal move for Bologna midfielder and Scotland international Lewis Ferguson, as the midfielder looks to regain momentum in his career.

Now 26, Ferguson has endured a frustrating period in Italy after suffering both ACL and hamstring injuries, setbacks that have disrupted his rhythm and limited his opportunities for regular minutes with the Serie A side. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, consistent game time has become increasingly important for the midfielder as he looks to re-establish himself at club and international level.

Although Lewis was released by Rangers during his youth years, he has since gone on to become one of Scotland’s standout midfielders of his generation. After captaining Aberdeen and producing a series of commanding performances at Pittodrie, he earned a high-profile move to Bologna in 2022. His impact in Italy was immediate, as he quickly became a key figure for the Rossoblù, earning plaudits for his leadership, work rate, and goal threat from midfield.

However, this season has been more challenging. Injuries and competition for places have restricted his involvement, leading to growing speculation over his future as January approaches. That situation has not gone unnoticed back home, with Barry Ferguson confident that several clubs will be keeping a close eye on developments in Bologna.

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show on January 23, Ferguson admitted that interest in his nephew is inevitable.

“I think there will be a fair bit of interest in him, if I’m being honest,” he said. “A lot of clubs will be looking at his situation and asking, ‘Why isn’t he playing?’ I’ve watched Bologna a few times. He’s not been at his absolute best, but even then, he’s still been good.”

The idea of a return to Glasgow gathered further momentum when a Celtic supporter jokingly asked whether a loan move to Parkhead could be on the cards. Barry was quick to shut that down with a light-hearted response, instead floating the idea of a Rangers reunion.

“Aye,” he replied, “a wee cheeky loan move to Rangers would be nice.”

Former Rangers striker Ally McCoist has previously voiced his belief that Lewis Ferguson should have been targeted by the Light Blues earlier in his career, and that sentiment remains relevant. With Connor Barron currently sidelined through injury, a short-term loan deal could make sense from a footballing perspective, offering Rangers midfield depth while allowing Ferguson the chance to rediscover his best form in a familiar environment.

That said, any move appears unlikely unless Lewis himself pushes for a change. For now, clubs are monitoring the situation closely, and a potential “homecoming” remains an intriguing possibility rather than an imminent reality but with January approaching, it’s a storyline that may yet gather pace.