Rangers hopes of opening their January transfer window with the signing of a proven SPFL performer have hit an early obstacle, with AEK Athens rejecting an opening offer for James Penrice.
Greek journalist Giannis Chorianopoulos reported on Friday evening that Rangers had made a formal approach for the 27-year-old left-back, only for AEK Athens to knock back the bid.
❗ Rangers made an offer to AEK Athens for James Penrice. Offer has been rejected 🟡🔵@AEK_FC_OFFICIAL @RangersFC#AEK #AEKFC #Rangers #RangersFC #GRFC
— Giannis Chorianopoulos (@choria80) January 2, 2026
The move comes as no surprise, with Rangers head coach Danny Röhl having spoken repeatedly about the need to add players who understand the demands, mentality and scrutiny that come with playing at Ibrox - particularly those already familiar with the Scottish football landscape.
Speaking after his side’s goalless draw with Falkirk at Ibrox last month, Röhl was clear in his thinking, stating the club needed “players that also understand what it means to play for Rangers.”
Penrice fits that brief.
The Livingston-born defender has amassed over 100 Scottish Premiership appearances across spells with Hearts and Livingston, alongside earlier experience in the lower leagues with Partick Thistle and East Fife.
Known for his progressive passing, delivery from wide areas and strong reading of the game, he represents the type of reliable, league-savvy option Rangers are keen to add.
The former Hearts full-back only joined AEK Athens in the summer in a deal believed to be worth around £2 million, and has been a regular in Greece, making 22 appearances across the Super League, Greek Cup and UEFA Conference League.
That level of involvement helps explain AEK’s firm stance, with Rangers likely needing to match, or exceed, that fee to progress negotiations.
Left-back remains a clear priority for Rangers after a chaotic summer saw Jefte, Ridvan Yilmaz and Robbie Fraser all depart in quick succession, leaving the club reliant on a 19-year-old Brentford loanee as the only recognised option on that side.
While Meghoma has shown promise, his inconsistency is typical of a development player, and rotation in that area is viewed as essential.
Despite the initial setback, Rangers are expected to persist.
With Röhl having already confirmed the club plan to add multiple players this window, confidence remains that further dialogue, aided by new football advisor Stig Inge Bjørnebye, could yet reopen the deal.