Aberdeen’s rebuild after the dismissal of Jimmy Thelin is already beginning to take shape – and two familiar names from Rangers recent past are firmly on the Dons defensive shortlist.
With the managerless Granite City club assessing multiple centre-back options ahead of the summer, former Ibrox defenders are being seriously considered as part of a wider strategy to strengthen a back line that has struggled for consistency this season.
For Rangers supporters, the situation offers an interesting subplot: players once on the books at Ibrox could soon be lining up against their old club in red – but neither will arrive in time for tomorrow’s fixture.
Aberdeen’s recruitment team are understood to be monitoring two ex-Rangers centre-halves who have rebuilt their careers elsewhere after departing Glasgow.
Both defenders came through Rangers academy but ultimately failed to establish long-term first-team roles.
Since leaving Ibrox, however, each has gained valuable senior experience, developing into more reliable and physically mature operators – exactly the profile Aberdeen are now targeting.
The Dons are keen to add defenders who are: Comfortable in Scottish football, physically robust and available at realistic market value with sell on potential.
Former Rangers players tick several of those boxes, particularly when it comes to understanding the demands of the Scottish Premiership and the expectations that come with playing for a large support.
The interest in ex-Ibrox defenders is part of a broader recruitment push from Aberdeen, who are also tracking domestic options from across Scotland.
Kilmarnock centre-back Lewis Mayo, who featured for Steven Gerrard in Rangers pre-season of 2020, is one of the names on their radar. Mayo has been a consistent performer at Rugby Park, known for his aerial ability, aggressive defending and leadership qualities.
His contract situation and experience at Premiership level make him an appealing option for a Dons side looking to stabilise at the back.
Another ex-Ibrox youth and current Livingston defender Daniel Finlayson is another player under consideration. Finlayson has impressed in the Scottish Championship and Premiership with the Lions, with his versatility and athleticism, capable of operating both centrally and at full-back.
His age profile and development curve fit Aberdeen’s long-term planning model.
While Rangers are not directly involved in the negotiations, the possibility of former Ibrox defenders strengthening a rival adds extra edge to future meetings between the clubs.
From a Rangers perspective, it also highlights how quickly the Scottish football landscape can shift. Players once deemed surplus at Ibrox can still carve out strong Premiership careers elsewhere – sometimes with direct rivals.
If former Rangers defenders do end up pulling on the red of Aberdeen, future clashes at Pittodrie and Ibrox will carry extra narrative weight.