Rangers Set to Land Bournemouth’s Max Aarons on Season-Long Loan
Rangers manager Russell Martin is closing in on a key summer addition, with Bournemouth full-back Max Aarons expected to join the Scottish side on loan for the 2025/26 season. According to Italian transfer insider Matteo Moretto, a verbal agreement is already in place, with only formalities remaining before the move is confirmed.
Aarons, 25, made his professional breakthrough with Norwich City after coming through the youth ranks at Luton Town and quickly established himself as one of England’s top young right-backs. His consistency in the Championship and Premier League led to a £7 million switch to Bournemouth in 2023.
However, despite 23 appearances in his debut season with the Cherries, Aarons struggled for game time under manager Andoni Iraola and fell behind Adam Smith and Julián Araujo in the pecking order. A loan spell at Valencia earlier this year yielded little success, with just five appearances for the La Liga club, who opted not to pursue a permanent deal.
Now, a fresh opportunity awaits at Ibrox, where Martin is overseeing a rebuild ahead of a crucial campaign. While Rangers appear to have depth at right-back—with veteran James Tavernier and versatile Dujon Sterling both in the mix—there are lingering concerns. Tavernier, now 33, has shown signs of decline, particularly in defensive areas, while Sterling remains more of a utility player than a natural starter.
Aarons’ dynamic style—marked by strong ball progression, positional awareness, and defensive sharpness—aligns well with Martin’s tactical preferences. With Jefte recently stabilising the left side of the defence, Aarons could bring similar balance to the right, offering both attacking support and a disciplined defensive presence.
Opinion Insight:
This move has the makings of a win-win. Aarons gets the consistent minutes he’s lacked since leaving Norwich, and Rangers secure a high-ceiling fullback without long-term financial risk. If Martin can reignite his form, Bournemouth may soon regret not finding a place for him in their plans.
