Rangers Plot New Deal For £1m-Rated 26-Year-Old After Celtic Display: Should The Board Break Its Wage Structure?

Rangers Plot New Deal For £1m-Rated 26-Year-Old After Celtic Display: Should The Board Break Its Wage Structure? Rangers have opened plans to reward a 26-year-old defender with a long-term deal after an impressive start under Derek McInnes at Ibrox. Football Insider reports that Rangers want to secure Dujon Sterling’s future at Ibrox despite the right-back already having a deal that runs until 2028. Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told the publication that club officials are determined to keep the defender after his performances. Sterling has made 11 appearances this season and has become a regular in McInnes’ side. His display in the 1-0 victory over Celtic underlined his importance, after James Tavernier left last summer. That departure created a question on the right side. Sterling, however, has answered it with defensive work and responsibility. He has played as a right-back and has sometimes tucked inside to support the back line, giving McInnes an option. The situation still carries a question. Sterling has endured fitness problems during his time at Rangers, and he made only 17 appearances across all competitions last season. Handing him an improved deal could protect the club from interest elsewhere, yet Rangers must make sure the new terms reflect a body of evidence rather than weeks. Rangers and Dujon Sterling face contract decision The timing makes sense from the club’s side because Sterling has entered the season as one of McInnes’ trusted players. A longer agreement could reward his form while giving Rangers protection if interest develops. GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – SEPTEMBER 20: Dujon Sterling of Rangers is seen during the William Hill Premiership 2026/27 match between Celtic and Glasgow Rangers at Celtic Park on September 20, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images) There is another piece of business moving in the same direction. Rangers plan to make James Penrice’s loan from AEK Athens permanent by using the option included. The 27-year-old left-back joined on a season-long loan in August, and Football Insider reported that Rangers could complete the move for less than £1million. Should Rangers reward Dujon Sterling now? Penrice has impressed since arriving and produced a performance against Celtic, strengthening the case for a permanent move. Rangers appear keen to keep players who have become important to McInnes. For Sterling, though, the board should avoid treating one spell as proof that every risk has disappeared. His contract already runs until 2028, so Rangers have room to negotiate without rushing into a huge commitment. Still, his response to Tavernier’s departure gives the club a reason to act. If the new terms remain sensible and protect Rangers financially, extending Sterling’s stay would make more sense than waiting until his bargaining position becomes stronger.