Rangers are poised to lose another promising academy graduate, with teenage midfielder Bailey Rice set to depart Ibrox as a free agent this summer.
Contract Standoff and Growing Interest
The Glasgow club have been unable to reach an agreement on new terms with the Scotland Under-21 international, meaning his contract will expire at the end of the season. This situation has alerted a host of clubs south of the border, who are now circling for his signature.
Aston Villa, Sunderland, West Bromwich Albion, and Cardiff City have all made recent checks on the 19-year-old's availability. Furthermore, West Brom and Cardiff have already signalled their intention to table pre-contract offers in January, when Rice is legally free to negotiate with interested parties.
A Record-Breaking Homegrown Talent
Rice's potential departure represents a significant blow for Rangers' youth development pathway. The defensive midfielder holds a special place in the club's modern history, having become the youngest post-war league player to appear for Rangers.
He made his debut aged just 16 years and 137 days in a match against Livingston in 2023. Initially emerging from Motherwell's academy, his early promise attracted attention from Premier League sides like Manchester City and Brighton, but he chose to remain in Scotland and sign for Rangers.
The 6ft 1in player has also gained experience in European competition and has represented Scotland across multiple youth levels.
Part of a Concerning Trend for Rangers
Rice's expected exit follows a pattern of young talent leaving the Ibrox set-up. Earlier this year, the club saw academy products Oliver Goodbrand and Alfie Hutchison join Newcastle United, while winger Archie Stevens left to sign for Arsenal.
This trend raises questions about the club's ability to retain its best young prospects and build a sustainable first-team squad around homegrown talent. Losing a player of Rice's pedigree for no transfer fee is a scenario Rangers were undoubtedly keen to avoid.
