EX-CELTIC FORWARD EYEING RANGERS JANUARY MOVE, SHEARER WARNED RÖHL TO MOVE FAST AS RIVAL CLUBS SHOW INTEREST

Rangers have received public backing from football legend Alan Shearer as they consider a move in the January transfer window to bolster their attacking options. Shearer is said to have advised new head coach Danny Röhl to move quickly to secure a target who could have a significant impact for the Scottish Premiership side.

According to sources, several European and domestic clubs are also monitoring the situation, increasing the urgency for Rangers to act decisively. Shearer’s involvement has added pressure on the club to make a swift move before rival teams can step in and secure the player.

The player in question is Jonathan Afolabi, the 25-year-old former Celtic striker. Afolabi is currently on loan at Dutch club Cambuur from Belgian side Kortrijk, having previously played for multiple Scottish clubs on loan, including Dunfermline Athletic, Dundee, Ayr United, and Airdrieonians. Despite limited opportunities at Celtic, Afolabi developed his game through these loan spells, gaining valuable first-team experience.

Afolabi’s career took a notable turn when he joined Bohemians in the League of Ireland in 2022. He scored 15 goals in 37 appearances, earning Player of the Month honours in July 2023, which drew attention from Belgian side Kortrijk. Limited playing time there led to his loan move to Cambuur in the Netherlands, where he has continued to develop.

Rangers are reportedly keen to bring him to Ibrox, but the club is not alone in expressing interest. Rival teams, including Shamrock Rovers, are said to be tracking the player’s situation, prompting Shearer to advise Röhl to act swiftly. The former England striker is known for advocating decisive action in transfer dealings, particularly when high-potential players are in demand.

If Rangers can secure Afolabi, he would provide a versatile option in attack. His experience across Scotland, Ireland, Belgium, and the Netherlands equips him to adapt to different styles of football, while his goal-scoring ability could complement the existing attacking players at Ibrox.

The move would also support Röhl’s tactical plans, as Rangers have struggled for consistent attacking form this season. Afolabi’s addition could create healthy competition for starting places, motivating the squad while giving Röhl a forward capable of impacting both domestic and European fixtures.

Negotiations are expected to accelerate in the coming weeks, with the January transfer window approaching fast. Both the board and Röhl are reportedly aligned on the need to secure the deal quickly to avoid losing out to other clubs.

Fans have reacted positively to the news, with many taking to social media to express excitement at the possibility of a new signing who combines youth, versatility, and experience. Afolabi’s arrival would be seen as a statement of intent from both Röhl and the club’s management.

Historically, moves involving former Celtic players are rare due to the intensity of the Old Firm rivalry. However, professional football has evolved, and Rangers appear willing to prioritize talent and tactical fit over tradition, signaling a bold approach in the transfer market.

Analysts note that Afolabi’s varied experience prepares him well for Scottish football, with his physicality, movement, and finishing ability making him a strong candidate for immediate integration into the first team. Joining Rangers mid-season could allow him to settle in before crucial fixtures, providing additional firepower when it is most needed.

As the January window approaches, attention will be on both Danny Röhl and the Rangers board. Whether they can secure Afolabi’s services amid interest from other clubs will be a key story over the next few weeks. If successful, the signing would underline the club’s ambition and Shearer’s backing would add further credibility to the move.

For now, Rangers fans are left anticipating developments, with the potential addition of Afolabi offering excitement and hope for the remainder of the season.