Rangers have opened talks over a move to sign James Tavernier’s replacement this summer, according to Rangers News.
The Ibrox club endured a disappointing campaign as they finished third in the Scottish Premiership, while they were eliminated in the League Phase in the Europa League, and finished trophyless under Danny Rohl.
Now the German is looking to strengthen his squad in order to get the club back where they want to be, and a replacement for his former captain is understood to be right at the top of his wishlist.
Rangers Open Talks for Skoglund
Hammarby star Hampus Skoglund, who has been described as ‘dynamic’ and one of the best full-backs in Sweden, has now emerged as a target for the Glasgow giants as they look to strengthen their defence.
A deal for Lawrence Shankland has already been completed to bolster the attack, and now the defence is understood to be a priority after the club saw captain Tavernier move on at the end of his contract, while Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius have seen their loan moves come to an end.
According to the report, Rangers have opened talks with Skoglund’s representatives about a switch to Ibrox, showing how seriously they are interested in his services.
It’s understood that there has been more than one meeting between the parties in recent weeks, which suggests that they are ready to step up their move to be more concrete. He is currently contracted to Hammarby until 2029 after signing a new contract last year, but Rangers are confident of getting a deal over the line.
The player himself has also admitted he’d be open to making a move this summer, describing transfer rumours from abroad as ‘fun’.
Rangers Ready to Strengthen Defence
Rangers know they have a lot of areas in their squad that they need to address, but bringing in new full-backs must be seen as an absolute priority. Max Aarons’ loan has ended, and with Tavernier gone, that leaves only Dujon Sterling as a natural right-back option in the squad. But his injury issues have plagued him for years, and he simply can’t be relied upon to be available over the course of a whole season.
Rohl’s transfer business in January was encouraging for the most part, with left-back Tuur Rommens impressing since his arrival. If Rohl is able to replicate that deal with Skoglund, then it would be excellent business and he’d be a fine addition for a modest transfer fee.
At 23 years old, Skoglund represents the perfect blend of youth and proven quality that Rangers desperately need as they look to rebuild. Standing at 1.78m, the Swedish right-back is known for his explosive pace, precise crossing, and tenacity in one-on-one duels. Swedish football experts have frequently labelled him as one of the most complete full-backs in the Allsvenskan, with his ability to influence both ends of the pitch making him a standout performer.
During the 2025 season with Hammarby, Skoglund featured in 28 league matches, contributing five goals and seven assists from the right flank. His attacking output is impressive for a defender, often overlapping with pace that leaves opposition wingers trailing. Defensively, he averages 2.4 tackles and 1.8 interceptions per game, showcasing a maturity beyond his years. His versatility also allows him to play on the left if required, giving Danny Rohl valuable tactical flexibility.
Who is Hampus Skoglund?
Born in Stockholm, Skoglund came through the youth ranks at Hammarby and made his senior debut in 2022. What started as a rotational role quickly turned into a starting position thanks to his rapid development. Coaches at Hammarby have praised his work ethic, professionalism, and leadership qualities, often comparing his style to a mix between Trent Alexander-Arnold’s delivery and Kieran Trippier’s reliability.
“Hampus is dynamic, technically gifted, and has a winner’s mentality,” said one Swedish analyst close to the club. “He can defend solidly but his real strength lies in transitions. He reads the game well and launches attacks with intelligent passing or surging runs down the wing.”
Rangers fans will be particularly excited by Skoglund’s set-piece ability. He has a powerful right foot and has scored several goals from direct free-kicks and penalties in Sweden. At Ibrox, where the crowd demands attacking full-backs, his style could translate perfectly into the Scottish game.
Why Skoglund Fits the Rangers Project
Danny Rohl’s vision for Rangers is built around high-intensity pressing, quick transitions, and width in attack. Skoglund fits this profile perfectly. Unlike the aging Tavernier, who became more of a set-piece specialist in recent seasons, Skoglund offers mobility and stamina that would allow Rangers to press higher up the pitch.
The departure of Tavernier, while emotional for many supporters, has created an opportunity to refresh the squad. Bringing in a younger, hungry player like Skoglund could inject new energy into the right side of defence. With Lawrence Shankland already secured to lead the line, Rangers are clearly trying to build a more balanced and dynamic team capable of challenging Celtic for the title next season.
Financially, the deal makes sense for Rangers. Hammarby are understood to be open to selling for a fee in the region of £4-6 million, which would represent good value for a player with several years left on his contract and significant resale potential. Rangers’ recruitment team have been active in Scandinavia in recent windows, and this move continues that successful strategy of identifying talent from leagues that translate well to Scotland.
Potential challenges remain, however. The physicality and intensity of Scottish football is often a shock for Scandinavian players. Skoglund will need time to adapt to the furious pace and physical duels in the Premiership. Yet, his performances against tougher Allsvenskan sides suggest he has the temperament to succeed.
Broader Squad Rebuild Under Rohl
Beyond the full-back position, Rangers have several other areas to strengthen. The midfield remains somewhat unbalanced following recent departures, and defensive depth is thin after the returns of Djiga and Cornelius to their parent clubs. Rohl is reportedly keen on adding at least two more defenders and another creative midfielder before the window closes.
The signing of Shankland has already been well received by the Ibrox faithful. The Scottish international striker brings experience, leadership, and a proven goalscoring record. Pairing him with existing attackers could create a potent forward line, but it is the defence that will ultimately determine whether Rangers can mount a serious title challenge.
Supporters are eager for positive news after a trophyless campaign that saw them slip to third place. The appointment of Rohl was meant to signal a new era of progressive, attacking football, but results have yet to fully match expectations. Securing Skoglund would send a strong message that the club is serious about competing at the highest level once again.
Should the deal for Skoglund progress as expected, he could be unveiled at Ibrox within the next few weeks. Pre-season training is already underway, and new signings will be vital in integrating quickly into Rohl’s system.
Rangers fans have waited patiently for a return to glory. With smart recruitment like the potential addition of this dynamic Swedish star, the foundations for a successful 2026/27 season are slowly being laid.
Only time will tell if Skoglund becomes the next cult hero on the right flank, but early indications suggest he has all the attributes to succeed in Glasgow’s demanding environment.
