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Rangers sign left-back James Penrice from Greek champions AEK Athens for on loan with an option to buy.
Transfer

Rangers sign left-back James Penrice from Greek champions AEK Athens for on loan with an option to buy.

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SokaLive

15 Aug 2026, 16:18

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Rangers Football Club has secured left-back James Penrice on loan from Greek Super League champions AEK Athens, with an option to purchase included in the deal. The Scottish Premiership side strengthens their defensive options as manager Philippe Clement prepares for the second half of the season. Penrice, who has established himself as a reliable defender in European competition, joins Rangers during a critical period as they chase Celtic in the title race, currently sitting second with several matches in hand to play.

The 25-year-old defender brings valuable experience from competing in Greek football's top division, where AEK Athens has won multiple league titles and regularly participates in European competitions. Penrice's move represents Rangers' continued investment in squad depth, particularly at left-back where competition for places remains competitive. The Ibrox club finished second in the Scottish Premiership last season with 92 points but have strengthened significantly during this transfer window, aiming to mount a serious title challenge against rivals Celtic, who currently lead the standings.

Penrice's arrival provides tactical flexibility for Rangers, allowing Clement to rotate personnel while maintaining defensive stability across the campaign. The loan arrangement with a purchase option protects the club financially while allowing evaluation of the defender's suitability to Scottish football. With Rangers competing in both domestic and European fixtures, including potential European competition in the coming months, the additional defensive reinforcement could prove crucial as the squad battles on multiple fronts through the remainder of the season.