Rangers are expected to land Ben Godfrey on loan from Atalanta, giving new manager Derek McInnes a defensive reinforcement as he begins reshaping the squad at Ibrox. The English center-back, who has spent the current campaign away from the Italian club, would represent one of McInnes’ first moves in the transfer window since taking charge.

McInnes was appointed Rangers manager on June 17, 2026, signing a three-year contract after Danny Röhl’s departure.

Godfrey’s winding road to Glasgow

Godfrey’s career trajectory over the past two years reads like a European backpacking itinerary. The 28-year-old defender moved from Everton to Atalanta in June 2024, but settling in Bergamo never quite happened.

Instead of establishing himself in Serie A, Godfrey has been shipped out on a series of loans. He spent time at Ipswich Town in 2025, then moved to Sheffield United for the 2025-2026 stretch, before landing at Danish club Brøndby on January 20, 2026.

For Rangers, that situation represents opportunity. Godfrey was once considered one of England’s more promising defensive prospects, and a loan deal means McInnes can add Premier League-level experience without the financial commitment of a permanent transfer.

McInnes building from the back

McInnes built his reputation during a lengthy spell at Aberdeen, where he consistently challenged Celtic and Rangers at the top of Scottish football with significantly fewer resources. His appointment on a three-year deal suggests the Rangers board is thinking long-term rather than reaching for another quick fix.