Rangers have confirmed the loan signing of Burkina Faso international Nasser Djiga from Premier League side Wolves, with the towering 22-year-old centre-back arriving at Ibrox on a season-long deal.
Thelo AasgaardDjiga becomes the sixth addition of the summer for Russell Martin as the club continues its rebuild. He follows Emmanuel Fernandez, Joe Rothwell, Lyall Cameron, Thelo Aasgaard and Max Aarons through the doors at Ibrox in what is shaping up to be one of the most significant squad overhauls in recent years.
A Rising Prospect from the Premier League
Djiga was signed by Wolves in a reported £10million move from Red Star Belgrade back in January, a testament to the club’s belief in his potential. While he made just a handful of appearances in the Premier League, Wolves have now sanctioned this loan deal to help accelerate his development with regular first-team minutes – and Rangers have pounced.
I am very happy to join Rangers, it is one of the biggest clubs in Scotland and in Europe. I will try to give everything, to play every game and I think it is the best team for me. I just want to play and enjoy football with the team.
Nasser Djiga, Defender, Rangers Football Club
Importantly, Wolves have tied him down until 2030, signalling they still see Djiga as a long-term asset. This isn’t a cast-off — it’s a calculated loan to keep a high-potential defender progressing. For Rangers, it’s a chance to benefit from his talents during a critical transitional year.
From Champions League to Ibrox
Djiga’s career to date has seen him rise quickly through the ranks. After breaking through at FC Basel in Switzerland, he enjoyed loan spells in France with Nimes and Red Star before securing a permanent move to the Serbian giants. His reputation grew significantly last season as he played every minute of Red Star’s Champions League campaign, giving him the kind of European experience that will be hugely valuable at Ibrox.
He’s no stranger to pressure or atmosphere – and stepping into Ibrox, especially under the lights in Europe, should feel familiar.
What Kind of Defender is Djiga?
Physically imposing at 6’4”, Djiga brings a mix of athleticism and aggression to the Rangers backline. He’s a front-footed defender – ideal for Russell Martin’s preference for a high line and building from the back. He’s capable of covering large spaces behind the defence, which was clearly lacking in the first half against Club Brugge on Sunday.
Nasser is someone who, despite still only being 22, has garnered valuable experience in both the UEFA Champions League and Premier League.
Russell Martin, Head Coach, Rangers Football Club
The contrast between halves in that match underlined how important mobility and composure at centre-back will be under Martin. Djiga fits the bill perfectly. He won 82% of aerial duels – an elite number. He was rarely dribbled past. He blocked more shots than anyone in the Serbian top flight. While not a marauding ball-carrier, his passing contributes more value in build-up play than his carrying – ideal for Martin’s system.
In short, he’s composed, commanding, and combative. Exactly the profile Rangers have missed since the days of Goldson and Bassey’s 2022 partnership.
Where Will He Fit In?
Djiga has mostly played in a back four, often as the right centre-back. At Wolves, his limited appearances came on the right side of a back three – showing his adaptability. Martin may opt to partner him with the left-sided Emmanuel Fernandez, another recent arrival, giving Rangers two young, dynamic centre-backs to build from.
It’s also understood that James Tavernier could be deployed at centre-back when needed, as seen against Brugge, adding further flexibility as the squad takes shape.
Defensive Rebuild Taking Shape
This move continues a clear trend: addressing long-standing issues in central defence. Rangers have lacked reliable options in this area for several seasons, with recurring injuries and inconsistent form derailing multiple campaigns.
In Djiga and Fernandez, Rangers now have two highly-rated, modern defenders who should suit Martin’s tactical blueprint. While it remains likely that more movement will occur in defence – especially if exits happen – this is a significant step toward stabilising the backline.
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Final Thoughts
Rangers fans should be excited about Djiga. He’s not a quick-fix or journeyman – he’s a serious prospect. Wolves saw enough in him to invest heavily, and now Rangers have the opportunity to help unlock that potential.
He brings physicality, composure, and a winning mentality forged through Champions League nights and international football. For a club desperate for defensive solidity, Djiga’s arrival is another promising step in the right direction.
We are delighted to bring Nasser to the club on a season-long loan.
He is a player with the necessary physical and mental profile to flourish both domestically and in Europe, and we look forward to seeing his development under Russell and his coaching staff.
Kevin Thelwell, Director of Football, Rangers Football Club
Original Rumour Article – Nasser Djiga: What Rangers Fans Could Expect if Loan Move Materialises
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