Rangers faithful have secretly opened a WhatsApp group planning iconic welcome celebrations for an EX-CELTIC HERO amid emotional Scotland reunion

Rangers fans have reportedly opened a secret WhatsApp group in preparation for what they describe as an “iconic welcome” as speculation grows over a potential shock return to Scottish football.

The private group was opened for rangers faithful for coordinating and planning purposes for a fan reception should the player join the Ibrox side in the January transfer window. Social media and fan forums have been buzzing with discussion about the potential move, with supporters keen to see a highly regarded midfielder return to Scotland.

The player in question is Ryan Christie, the Scotland international who began his senior career at Inverness Caledonian Thistle in 2013. Christie made 56 appearances and scored nine goals for Inverness over two seasons, establishing himself as one of the most promising young midfielders in Scottish football.

His performances earned him a move to Celtic in 2015, where he would go on to make 95 league appearances and score 27 goals.

During his time at Celtic, Christie had two loan spells a brief return to Inverness Caledonian Thistle in 2015, where he played seven games and scored once, and a more substantial spell at Aberdeen between 2017 and 2018, making 45 appearances and scoring ten goals. These periods away from Celtic allowed Christie to gain regular first-team experience and hone his technical and tactical skills.

In 2021, Christie made the move south to join Bournemouth, where he has since amassed 142 appearances and seven goals. Although his role at Bournemouth has varied, his ability to control midfield play, contribute goals, and provide experience at the highest levels has kept him on the radar of several clubs, including Rangers.

New Rangers manager Danny Röhl is understood to have identified Christie as his first-choice target in the winter transfer window. Sources within the club say Röhl has personally contacted the Bournemouth midfielder to gauge his interest in a move back to Scotland.

Röhl, who was appointed earlier this month, is said to see Christie as an ideal fit for his high-intensity, possession-based system. Insiders claim the coach values the midfielder’s versatility and experience at both club and international level, believing he could provide creativity and leadership in the heart of midfield.

A source close to the Ibrox coaching staff told the BBC:

“The manager has made it clear that Christie is his top target. He fits exactly the profile of the player he wants, and talks have already begun informally.”

Rangers supporters have reportedly reacted enthusiastically to the prospect of the signing, despite Christie’s history with Celtic, Rangers’ traditional rivals. The fan-led WhatsApp group is said to be planning banners, social media campaigns, and a coordinated reception at key locations in Glasgow should the transfer go through.

Football observers note that Christie’s potential return would be unusual given the intense rivalry between Celtic and Rangers, but many see it as a testament to his talent and experience. Supporters appear to be placing emphasis on his Scotland connection and professional achievements rather than his former allegiances.

Christie’s career trajectory has been marked by steady progression. From his early years at Inverness to establishing himself as a key figure at Celtic, he has consistently demonstrated technical ability, goal-scoring instincts, and adaptability across multiple positions in midfield. His performances at Aberdeen and Bournemouth further solidified his reputation as a reliable and creative midfielder capable of influencing matches at both domestic and international levels.

Reports suggest that Christie’s playing time at Bournemouth has been inconsistent this season, which has fueled speculation that he may be open to a move back to Scottish football. Sources in England indicate that Bournemouth would be willing to consider a loan deal with an option to buy, a structure that could suit both the player and Rangers financially.

For Rangers, securing Christie would represent a statement of intent from Röhl in his first transfer window in charge. The club’s recruitment team is understood to be preparing formal inquiries in anticipation of the January window opening, with Christie viewed as a priority addition to the squad.

A transfer would also mark a significant moment in Scottish football, potentially altering the dynamics of the Premiership. Christie’s experience in domestic competitions and his ability to perform in high-pressure matches could give Rangers a competitive boost as they seek to close the gap on Celtic.

While the move remains speculative, both fans and pundits are watching developments closely. The next few weeks are expected to be pivotal in determining whether the midfielder makes a return to Scotland.

Rangers insiders emphasize that no official deal has been concluded yet, but planning is underway internally to accommodate a high-profile signing should the opportunity arise.

If completed, the signing could be one of the most talked-about transfers in recent Scottish football history, and the planned fan reception may be remembered as one of the most significant displays of support seen at Ibrox in years.