NafisaRangers Make Bold Move for 292-Goal Jamie Vardy Amid Leeds and Sunderland Battle — Free Transfer Could Shake Up Summer Market**
Rangers are reportedly intensifying efforts to secure the signature of veteran striker Jamie Vardy on a free transfer, setting up a potential tug-of-war with Premier League newcomers Leeds United and Sunderland.
The 38-year-old goal machine officially ended his 13-year spell at Leicester City following the 2023/24 season, becoming the final player from their iconic 2015/16 Premier League title-winning squad to depart. Vardy joined the Foxes in 2012 from Fleetwood Town for a then non-league record £1.7 million and went on to etch his name into club folklore, scoring a remarkable 200 goals in 500 appearances. His time at Leicester saw him lift the Championship title in 2014, lead the club to an improbable Premier League crown two years later, and play a pivotal role in their maiden FA Cup victory in 2021. He also featured prominently in their Champions League and Europa League campaigns.
Now a free agent, Vardy has made it clear he has no intention of hanging up his boots just yet. “I still love scoring goals,” he said after leaving Leicester. “I’ve got plenty left to give.”
Rangers, under the guidance of new manager Russell Martin, are undergoing a summer rebuild as they aim to wrestle back control of Scottish football from rivals Celtic. According to reports from Fichajes, the Ibrox side see Vardy as an ideal addition to bring firepower and experience to their attack. However, they’re not alone — both Sunderland and Leeds are expected to challenge strongly for his signature.
Sunderland, freshly promoted after beating Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final, and Leeds, who returned to the Premier League as title winners, are both eyeing Vardy’s veteran know-how and sharp goal instinct to help them survive their top-flight campaigns. Despite Leicester’s struggles last season, Vardy still netted nine goals in 35 league appearances — proof he remains a credible threat in front of goal.
With 292 goals across spells at Stocksbridge Park Steels, Halifax Town, Fleetwood, and Leicester, plus seven goals in 26 England caps before retiring from international duty in 2018, Vardy’s career résumé speaks for itself.
Former England striker Emile Heskey weighed in on the situation, suggesting Vardy may be looking for a move where he can continue playing regularly in a slightly less intense setting. “He’ll want to keep playing, but the physical grind of the Championship or even the Premier League might not be ideal at this stage,” Heskey noted. “A move abroad or to a league like the Scottish Premiership could offer him a better balance.”
With interest heating up and no transfer fee required, Vardy’s next move could become one of the stories of the summer.
Nafisa
