Rangers have confirmed the sale of Jefte to Palmeiras, with the 21-year-old sealing a long-term deal back in his homeland just 12 months after arriving at Ibrox.
The fee, believed to be around £6 million plus add-ons, represents a massive return on the £700,000 Rangers paid Fluminense to bring him in following his loan spell at APOEL. On paper, it’s a deal that makes sense — a player who never looked fully comfortable in a Rangers jersey has now been flipped for a huge profit.
A Year of Learning at Ibrox
Jefte did play a fair number of games during his season in Glasgow, but he always gave the impression of being a work-in-progress rather than the finished article. At times his athleticism and energy were useful, yet there was never the sense that he had fully settled into life as a Rangers first-team regular. He was still learning, still adjusting, and while that is understandable for a young player, it left the left-back position looking vulnerable in big moments.
Replacement Already Through the Door
Rangers moved quickly to bring in Jayden Meghoma on loan from Brentford as Jefte’s replacement. The teenager has already been thrown straight into action, setting up Danilo’s goal against Club Brugge. He looks promising, but he’s inexperienced and raw — relying on him alone would be a big risk over a long season.
Profit Is Good, But Defence Is Still a Mess
Financially, this is smart business. Turning £700k into £6m in a single year is exactly the kind of deal the board needs to pull off more often. But that doesn’t erase the reality: Rangers are still light defensively, and the backline has been fragile from the very start of the campaign.
A new left-back to compete with Meghoma is essential. Just as importantly, a left-sided centre-back should be brought in before the window shuts. The defence needs balance, authority, and experience — none of which are present in abundance right now.
The Bottom Line
Selling Jefte is a good deal in isolation — no one can argue with the profit. But if that cash isn’t used to strengthen, then it becomes another example of short-term gain leaving long-term problems. Rangers need stability and quality at the back, and fans won’t accept excuses if the board doesn’t act before deadline day.
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