Rangers Close in on £3.5m Signing of Nobel Mendy as Transfer Gains Momentum
Rangers’ busy summer transfer window is showing no signs of slowing down as the Glasgow giants move closer to securing the signature of promising French defender Nobel Mendy. Reports from Spain suggest that the 20-year-old centre-back, currently on the books at La Liga side Real Betis, has missed a recent training session — a development widely interpreted as a clear sign that his transfer to Ibrox is on the verge of completion.
The deal, expected to cost Rangers around £3.5 million, will make Mendy the eleventh arrival of the summer under manager Russell Martin. The Light Blues have been engaged in an aggressive recruitment drive in an effort to strengthen the squad across all areas of the pitch, and Mendy’s addition would be another important piece in Martin’s vision for a more solid and dynamic defensive unit.
Mendy, who is comfortable playing as a left-sided central defender, is seen as a long-term investment for Rangers. Despite his young age, he has already earned a reputation for composure on the ball, intelligent positioning, and the ability to read the game effectively. His blend of physical presence and technical skill makes him a versatile option, one capable of fitting seamlessly into Martin’s preferred style of building play from the back.
The Frenchman’s potential signing also comes at a time when Rangers are looking to add depth and competition in the defensive line. Injuries, fixture congestion, and the need for rotation in domestic and European competitions have all highlighted the importance of having reliable options at centre-back. With Mendy’s arrival, the club would not only gain a player with immediate impact potential but also someone who could develop into a defensive cornerstone for years to come.

The fact that Mendy was absent from a recent Real Betis training session is being taken as a strong indicator that the deal is in its final stages. Such absences often signal that a transfer is close, with the player excused from sessions to finalise negotiations, complete medical examinations, or iron out personal terms. While official confirmation has yet to be made, sources close to the discussions suggest that progress is moving quickly and an announcement could come soon.
Russell Martin, who has already overseen a significant overhaul of the squad this summer, will likely view Mendy’s arrival as another key step in transforming Rangers into a more competitive side. The manager’s approach has been proactive, targeting players who fit his tactical philosophy rather than simply reacting to squad gaps. The signing of a young, left-footed central defender fits perfectly with his aim of improving both defensive stability and ball progression from the back.
Fans, meanwhile, have expressed growing excitement over the prospect of Mendy joining. His age, potential, and reported readiness to embrace the challenge of Scottish football make him an appealing addition to the club’s long-term plans. Supporters have also noted that his arrival could provide healthy competition for existing defenders, raising performance levels across the backline.
If the deal is completed as expected, Nobel Mendy’s move will underline Rangers’ determination to invest not just in proven talent but also in emerging players capable of contributing immediately while growing with the team. As the club continues its summer rebuild, the signing would reinforce the message that Russell Martin is constructing a squad with both present ambitions and future stability in mind.