Rangers have confirmed that 19-year-old attacker Callum Burnside has joined Airdrieonians on a season-long loan after impressing during his first loan spell with Alloa Athletic last season.
Burnside will spend the 2026/27 campaign with the Diamonds as he continues his development away from Ibrox.
The youngster enjoyed an excellent first senior loan last season, spending the campaign with Alloa Athletic and finishing as the Wasps' top scorer.
His performances also caught the eye in the League One play-offs, where he impressed against Airdrie over both legs.
The move to the Albert Bartlett Stadium will give Burnside another opportunity to play regular first-team football.
Burnside chose Airdrie
The teenager revealed that he had options elsewhere but opted for Airdrie after discussions with manager John Rankin, father of Ibrox youth teammate Luca Rankin.
“It was good to get in with the boys today and obviously straight on to the game tomorrow, so I’m looking forward to it” Burnside told Airdrie's official website.
“I had a few conversations with different teams, but the one I had with Ranks stood out to me a lot. He’s giving me a platform here that’s going to do well for me.”
Burnside also reflected positively on his time with Alloa and explained his hopes for the new season.
“Last year at Alloa was amazing for me, it was my first loan, and it was everything I could have wanted,” he said.
“Hopefully I’ll go and kick on again this year.”
Rankin excited by Burnside addition
Airdrie manager Rankin was pleased to secure the Rangers youngster after what he described as a lengthy process.
“We’re delighted to get Callum on board. It’s been a long process getting this done, so thanks to Rangers for helping us get it over the line,” Rankin said.
The Airdrie boss already knew Burnside and believes his previous League One experience makes him well suited to the move.
“Callum obviously played in this league last year and had a huge bearing on a successful Alloa team,” he said.
“I’ve known him for a number of years, and it was important that we got him in the building.”
Rankin also highlighted the attacking qualities Burnside can bring to his side.
“He’s got imagination at the top end of the pitch, can play in a number of different areas, and he’s got a hunger to hurt the opposition,” he added.
“He’s a willing runner who wants the ball at his feet – I’m sure that the supporters will warm to him straight away.”
Burnside primarily operates on the left wing, although his versatility allows him to feature in several attacking positions.
Rangers will now hope another full season of senior football can accelerate his development before he returns to Ibrox, ahead of a possible final Premiership loan akin to those for Bailey Rice, Findlay Curtis and Paul Nsio.
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