Rangers plan for Emmanuel Fernandez exit after Sky update on Ben Godfrey - verdict
Rangers could potentially be paving the way for Emmanuel Fernandez to leave after signing Ben Godfrey from Atalanta in the ongoing transfer window.
The England international has reportedly completed his medical to join the Gers on loan this summer to bolster Derek McInnes' squad.
As things stand, John Souttar and the former Peterborough United defender are the only two natural centre-backs at the Scottish manager's disposal, with the Atalanta ace set to become the third option.
The Ibrox hierarchy have apparently inserted an option to buy into the loan deal for Godfrey, which may indicate they are planning for a future without Fernandez.
After a slow start at the Light Blues, the Nigeria international has been linked with some top European teams in recent months after starring under Danny Rohl.
The Glaswegian outfit may have an opportunity to cash in on the 24-year-old sooner rather than later and the English defender could be his replacement in G51.
Ben Godfrey buy option update emerges at Rangers
Godfrey was one of the most exciting prospects in English football during his time at Norwich City, earning him a move to Everton in 2020 for £25million.
The centre-back has failed to live up to his potential since then and spent the 2025-26 campaign on loan at Sheffield United and Brondby.
According to Sky Sports on 28 June, Godfrey is now close to joining the Gers and the deal is expected to include a "significant" buy option.
The Glaswegian outfit are set to confirm the 28-year-old's signing in the coming hours and it remains to be seen how they could end up paying for him.
Emmanuel Fernandez price tag set at Ibrox
Football Insider transfer correspondent Pete O'Rourke shared in April that Rangers could demand over £20m for Fernandez amid interest from West Ham United and Arsenal.
Despite Godfrey's struggles in recent seasons at top clubs, the Gers undoubtedly have faith in him, as evidenced by their willingness to agree a substantial potential future fee.
The Govan side certainly wouldn't want to lose depth from their backline this summer, but they could be monitoring the Atalanta defender's performances next season to determine whether he can succeed Fernandez in the future.