The transfer rumour mill surrounding Rangers has exploded into life after exclusive claims emerged that the Ibrox side are preparing a surprise move to bring back former attacker Josh Windass from Wrexham.
According to respected journalist Ben Jacobs, Rangers have made a fresh approach for Windass following an unsuccessful attempt during the January transfer window. The proposed reunion is reportedly being driven by new manager Danny Rohl, who previously worked closely with the forward during their successful spell together at Sheffield Wednesday.
The report has instantly divided the Rangers fanbase. Some supporters see the move as a smart, pragmatic signing that could deliver goals and experience immediately. Others view it as a backward step for a club aiming to reclaim domestic dominance and compete seriously in Europe.
One thing is certain: this is already becoming one of the most controversial transfer stories of the summer.
Danny Rohl’s Trusted Lieutenant
The biggest reason this transfer is even being discussed lies in Danny Rohl’s admiration for Windass.
Their relationship at Sheffield Wednesday proved hugely productive. Under Rohl’s tactical system, Windass flourished as a flexible attacking weapon capable of operating as a striker, No.10, or wide forward. His intelligent movement, pressing intensity, and ability to score from difficult positions made him one of Wednesday’s most important players.
Rohl reportedly views Windass as someone who already understands his tactical philosophy inside out. In a summer where Rangers are expected to undergo significant squad restructuring, that familiarity could prove invaluable.
For a manager trying to implement a high-energy, fluid attacking system quickly, bringing in players who already know the blueprint can accelerate progress dramatically.
Windass himself has spoken glowingly about Rohl in the past, describing him as one of the best coaches he has ever worked under. That mutual trust is believed to be a major factor behind Rangers reigniting their interest.
Windass’ Career Revival Since Leaving Ibrox
When Windass first played for Rangers after arriving from Accrington Stanley in 2016, opinions on him were mixed.
There were flashes of quality. He possessed pace, technical ability, and a knack for producing moments of brilliance. However, inconsistency and questions surrounding his mentality under pressure prevented him from truly winning over the Ibrox faithful.
His departure eventually felt inevitable.
But since leaving Glasgow, Windass has rebuilt his reputation impressively.
After spells with Wigan Athletic and Sheffield Wednesday, the 32-year-old enjoyed some of the best football of his career in the English Championship. His goal return improved significantly, while his overall tactical intelligence matured considerably.
His move to Wrexham in 2025 only strengthened that resurgence.
At the ambitious Welsh club, Windass has reportedly delivered an outstanding Championship campaign, registering around 15–16 league goals alongside several assists and consistently strong attacking numbers. Those statistics have caught Rangers’ attention once again.
This is no longer the inconsistent youngster who struggled with the pressure of Ibrox years ago.
Rangers would instead be signing a vastly more experienced player with over 100 senior league goals to his name.
Why Rangers Are Seriously Considering the Deal
Proven Goal Threat
Rangers desperately need more attacking consistency after an inconsistent campaign. Windass has demonstrated he can contribute goals regularly at Championship level — a highly competitive environment.
Tactical Flexibility
One of Windass’ greatest strengths is versatility. He can operate as a central striker, behind the forward, on either wing, or as an advanced midfielder. That flexibility gives Rohl multiple tactical options.
Immediate Adaptation
Unlike overseas signings who may require months to settle, Windass already understands Scottish football, Rangers’ expectations, the pressure environment at Ibrox, and Rohl’s tactical demands.
That could allow him to make an instant impact.
Financial Realism
Rangers are still expected to operate carefully financially despite increased investment ambitions. A proven Championship attacker may represent a safer investment than gambling heavily on an untested foreign prospect.
Furious Fan Reaction Erupts Online
Despite the football logic behind the move, many Rangers supporters reacted negatively to the news.
Social media quickly filled with criticism after Jacobs’ report surfaced.
A large section of the fanbase believes Windass lacked the mentality required during his first spell at Rangers. Some supporters accused him of disappearing in big matches, while others questioned his work ethic and leadership qualities.
For critics, this move represents a worrying lack of ambition.
Many fans expected Rangers to target younger players with resale potential rather than revisiting former players already deemed not good enough years ago.
The fact Windass is now 32 years old has also become a major talking point.
Supporters demanding a modern rebuild fear this could signal a short-term approach rather than sustainable squad development.
There is also concern about how toxic the atmosphere could become if Windass struggles early on. Returning players often face heightened scrutiny, and any dip in form would likely intensify criticism toward both the player and Rohl himself.
Wrexham Hold the Power
Wrexham are under no pressure to sell.
The Hollywood-backed club reportedly rejected Rangers’ January approach and continue to value Windass highly. With his contract running until 2028, Wrexham are in a strong negotiating position.
Given Windass’ importance to their Championship ambitions, Rangers may need to submit a significant offer to even begin formal negotiations.
At present, reports suggest no official club-to-club talks have started yet, meaning discussions remain at an exploratory stage.
However, Rohl’s persistence indicates Rangers are serious about the possibility.
The Bigger Picture at Rangers
This story reflects a much wider debate currently surrounding Rangers’ future direction.
Under the evolving leadership structure and expected squad overhaul, the club faces enormous pressure to challenge Celtic domestically, improve in Europe, modernise recruitment, and rebuild a winning mentality.
Some supporters want exciting young talents with high ceilings.
Others believe Rangers need experienced, battle-tested professionals capable of delivering results immediately.
Windass sits directly at the centre of that divide.
To some, he represents familiarity, reliability, and tactical compatibility.
To others, he symbolises recycled recruitment and lowered ambition.
Could Windass Succeed Second Time Around?
Football history is full of players who failed during their first spell at a club before returning stronger, wiser, and more effective later in their careers.
Windass today is a very different footballer from the one who left Ibrox years ago.
He is more experienced, more tactically disciplined, and statistically far more productive.
Yet Rangers is not a normal football club. The pressure is relentless. Expectations are unforgiving. Every signing is judged immediately.
If the deal happens, Windass would need to silence doubters quickly.
But with Danny Rohl firmly backing him, Rangers may believe they can unlock the very best version of Josh Windass at last.
For now, supporters will watch developments closely as what initially seemed like an unlikely rumour gathers serious momentum heading into a crucial summer transfer window.
