Rangers Take a Big Gamble on Youssef Chermiti
Rangers are looking for a fresh start after a disappointing, trophyless campaign and a slow beginning under new manager Russell Martin. Determined to bounce back, the club made sweeping changes over the summer, and their boldest move came on deadline day: a deal worth £8m plus £2m in add-ons to sign Portuguese striker Youssef Chermiti from Everton.
It’s the club’s most expensive signing since Tore Andre Flo’s arrival from Chelsea back in 2000 and a clear sign of intent from the board to back Martin, especially after losing Hamza Igamane and Cyriel Dessers in the same window.
Chermiti himself is in search of a revival. His switch from Sporting Lisbon to Everton in 2023 for £14m never lived up to expectations. In two seasons at Goodison Park, the young forward managed just 24 appearances without scoring, often held back by limited minutes and injuries.
Despite that, Rangers’ sporting director Kevin Thelwell, who originally brought Chermiti to Everton, remains convinced of his talent. “I know his character well from our time at Everton. His attitude, professionalism, and hunger to improve have always impressed me. We believe Rangers is the right place for him to take that next step,” Thelwell said.
Chermiti is no stranger to high praise. Former Porto boss Sérgio Conceição once hailed him after the youngster scored against his side while still at Sporting, calling him “a player of great quality.” Standing at 6ft 4, Chermiti has also represented Portugal at every youth level from U15 to U21, scoring 21 goals in 37 international appearances.
For Rangers, it’s a bold investment — one that carries risk, but also the chance of unearthing a striker capable of becoming a star at Ibrox.
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