Qudus SalihuRangers’ ambitious pursuit of global superstar James Rodriguez appears to have reached a swift conclusion during the current international break, with the former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich playmaker reportedly opting to pursue a move to Major League Soccer (MLS) over a switch to Ibrox.
Rumours had intensified over the past week, suggesting direct contact had been established between the Colombian’s representatives and the Rangers hierarchy, including manager Danny Rohl and key transfer figure Andrew Cavenagh. The idea of securing a player of Rodriguez’s calibre—a free agent whose contract with Club León expires in December—was seen as a potential coup to inject world-class creativity into Rohl’s rebuilt squad.
Sources close to the deal indicate that Rohl and Cavenagh laid out their vision for the 34-year-old, positioning Rangers as a high-profile platform to prepare for the upcoming World Cup, complete with the draw of European football. However, Rodriguez’s decision was reportedly based on two key factors. The player is understood to prefer a move to the United States, where he believes an MLS environment will offer the ideal setting and consistency he desires ahead of the 2026 World Cup hosted in North America. Additionally, while Rangers’ offer was competitive for the Scottish market, MLS teams, particularly those based on the East Coast like Orlando City, can often offer a more financially compelling package and a preferred lifestyle choice for high-profile Latin American players.
With the international break drawing to a close, Rodriguez has reportedly informed all parties that his focus is now exclusively on securing a contract in the US. This outcome will be a disappointment for Rangers fans, especially following the recent praise the manager received from figures like Sir Alex Ferguson, who had urged Rohl to sign the Colombian.
Rohl and Cavenagh will now pivot back to their other targets as they continue their preparations for a busy winter transfer window, with the need for an attacking spark remaining a high priority.
Mustapha Sheidu
Qudus Salihu