Rangers are continuing talks with Brighton and Hove Albion over a deal for winger Amario Cozier-Duberry, despite having an initial offer rejected, according to reports. With the transfer window open and both Old Firm clubs actively reshaping their squads, Friday's Scottish gossip column carries plenty to keep supporters occupied on both sides of the city.
Rangers push for Cozier-Duberry
Cozier-Duberry, the Brighton and Hove Albion academy product who has developed into a promising senior prospect on the south coast, remains firmly in Rangers' thinking as the Ibrox club look to strengthen their attacking options. A first approach was turned down, but reports suggest Rangers have not walked away and discussions are ongoing.
The club are also said to have identified Rodez striker Ibrahima Balde as a potential target to add more depth up front — an area that manager Derek McInnes is clearly keen to address after a difficult start to the campaign.
Meanwhile, Turkish side Bursaspor are reportedly interested in Rangers winger Ross McCausland, which could complicate matters if the club lose him before bringing in adequate reinforcements.
Celtic move for Johnstone amid Sigur complication
Across the city, Celtic's business is no less busy. Sam Johnstone, the 33-year-old Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper who has represented England at international level, is reported to be a target as Celtic look to strengthen between the posts.
In midfield, Celtic are said to have agreed a deal for Hajduk Split and Canada international Niko Sigur — though a late complication has emerged, with Belgian club Genk reportedly entering the race and tabling a bid of €4 million for the player. Whether that offer derails the Parkhead club's pursuit remains to be seen.
Elsewhere in the Scottish game
It is not only the Glasgow clubs making moves. Aberdeen striker Kusini Yengi, who has struggled to nail down a starting role, is set to return to Japan on loan with Sanfrecce Hiroshima. Aberdeen will hope a spell in the J1 League can reignite the forward's form ahead of a potential return.
Raith Rovers have reached an agreement with St Johnstone for defender Jack Baird, though the deal is not yet complete as the player has yet to agree personal terms.
St Mirren, meanwhile, have received a welcome financial boost. Former defender Miguel Freckleton's progress to the UEFA Champions League with Austrian side LASK has triggered a sell-on or development payment for the Buddies — a reminder of the quiet but important work done in developing players who go on to perform at the highest level.
What it means for Rangers and Celtic
Both clubs are clearly operating with intent this window. Rangers need wider creativity and a reliable striker if they are to mount a sustained challenge on multiple fronts, and the pursuit of Cozier-Duberry signals genuine ambition in the market. Celtic, for their part, are looking to cover the goalkeeping position while bolstering central midfield — and a deal for Sigur, if it survives Genk's interest, would add an interesting international dimension to their engine room.
The coming days will tell us whether either club can get their priority deals over the line before the window closes.
Frequently asked
- Who is Amario Cozier-Duberry?
- Amario Cozier-Duberry is a winger at Brighton and Hove Albion who has come through the club's academy system. Rangers have had an initial bid rejected but remain in talks to sign him.
- Is Sam Johnstone leaving Wolves?
- According to reports, Celtic are interested in signing Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, who is 33 years old and has previously represented England. No deal has been confirmed.
- Who is Niko Sigur and why are Celtic signing him?
- Niko Sigur is a midfielder who plays for Hajduk Split and represents Canada internationally. Celtic are said to have agreed a deal for him, though Belgian club Genk have reportedly made a late €4m bid to try to hijack the transfer.