Will Signing a New Striker Determine Rangers' Title Fate?

Following a disappointing goalless draw against Hibernian, Rangers' Scottish Premiership title ambitions face scrutiny as they sit six points behind league leaders Hearts. The match highlighted ongoing concerns about their attacking capabilities, prompting questions about whether new signings before the January transfer window closes could bolster their chances of success.

Last updated: 01 February 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

Rangers' latest result against Hibs has intensified discussions around their title prospects in the ongoing 2025-26 Scottish Premiership season. The team's inability to convert chances into goals has raised alarms, particularly following a six-match winning streak that has now been halted. With the transfer window closing soon, manager Danny Rohl has hinted that changes could be forthcoming, but whether these changes will address the glaring issues in their attacking line remains to be seen.

Key takeaways

• Rangers are currently six points behind Hearts after a goalless draw with Hibernian.
• Concerns over attacking creativity and goal-scoring ability persist, with limited shots on target.
• Manager Danny Rohl has not ruled out new signings before the transfer window closes.

Timeline: how we got here

The following timeline outlines significant events that have shaped Rangers' current situation in the league:

• 1 December 2025: Rohl appointed Rangers manager after Russell Martin's departure.
• 20 December 2025: Rangers secure a six-game winning streak in the Premiership.
• 30 January 2026: Rangers draw with Hibernian, ending their winning run and raising questions about their title challenge.
• 1 February 2026: Danny Rohl addresses potential transfer activity as the window nears its close.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Following the match against Hibs, discussions around Rangers' attacking options have intensified, particularly regarding the need for a new striker. Rohl's comments suggest that the club may be actively pursuing signings before the January transfer window closes, indicating a recognition of the team's current limitations.

What was already established

Prior to this match, Rangers had demonstrated resilience under Rohl's management, achieving significant defensive solidity with ten clean sheets in sixteen games. However, the ongoing struggle to convert chances into goals has been a persistent theme, with criticism directed at the lack of creativity and effectiveness in the final third.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For fans and households, the team's performance directly impacts matchday experiences and merchandise sales. A strong title challenge typically boosts interest and engagement, while a lacklustre performance can dampen enthusiasm.

Businesses and jobs

The implications extend to local businesses, particularly those reliant on matchday footfall, such as pubs and restaurants. A successful Rangers team generally draws larger crowds, boosting economic activity in the area.

Policy and regulation

No immediate regulatory changes are anticipated in response to the team's performance. However, ongoing discussions regarding club finances and the impact of player transfers during the January window could influence future governance and financial strategies in Scottish football.

Numbers that matter

• 6 points: Rangers' deficit behind league leaders Hearts.
• 2 shots on target: Total registered by Rangers in the match against Hibs.
• 0.53 xG: Expected goals metric for Rangers during the Hibs match, indicating poor attacking performance.
• 10 clean sheets: Total number of clean sheets achieved by Rangers under Rohl in 16 games.
• 49 goals: Total goals scored by Andreas Skov Olsen during his time at Club Brugge, showcasing his potential impact.

Definitions and jargon buster

• xG (Expected Goals): A metric used to assess the quality of goal-scoring chances based on various factors.
• Govan: A district in Glasgow, known for being home to Rangers Football Club.
• Transfer window: A designated period during which clubs can sign players and make transfers.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, Rangers must focus on securing potential signings and addressing their attacking inefficiencies. The upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining their ability to remain competitive in the league.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the season progresses, consistent performances and results will be essential. The club may also need to assess player contracts and consider long-term strategies to strengthen the squad.

Signals to watch

• Transfer activity: Watch for any new signings before the window closes.
• Performance metrics: Track improvements in xG and shots on target in upcoming matches.
• Injury updates: Monitor player fitness levels, especially for key offensive players.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay updated on transfer news and potential signings.
• Support the team during matches to boost morale.
• Engage with club communications for insights into team strategy.

Don’t

• Give up on the season prematurely; there are many matches left to play.
• Ignore the importance of squad depth in a successful title challenge.
• Overreact to individual match results; focus on overall performance trends.

Checklist

• Review upcoming fixtures and assess the strength of opponents.
• Evaluate the squad's performance in the last few matches.
• Consider potential player signings and their fit within the team.
• Monitor fan sentiment and engagement levels.
• Stay informed about league standings and title race developments.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The current situation remains fluid, with potential for new signings that could alter the team's dynamics. However, uncertainties around player fitness and form, as well as the competitive nature of the league, mean that Rangers' title challenge is far from guaranteed. Additionally, reliance on a few key players could pose risks should they face injuries or dips in performance.

Bottom line

Rangers face a pivotal moment in their season, with a pressing need to bolster their attacking options as they trail Hearts in the league. The coming days will be critical, as the club looks to navigate the transfer landscape effectively while refining their tactics to improve goal-scoring capabilities. Their ability to adapt will determine their title prospects as the season unfolds.

FAQs

What are Rangers' chances of winning the league this season?

Rangers' chances hinge on their ability to improve their attacking output and secure potential signings before the transfer window closes. Currently, they are six points behind Hearts.

Who is Rangers' top scorer this season?

The top scorer for Rangers this season is right-back James Tavernier, with six goals, three of which have come from penalties.

What positions is Rangers looking to strengthen in the transfer window?

Rangers are primarily looking to strengthen their attacking options, particularly in the striker position, to enhance their goal-scoring capabilities.