Derek McInnes has brought stability to Rangers, with the team currently sitting second in the Scottish Premiership, gathering 27 points from 12 matches, comprising eight wins, three draws, and one defeat. They trail behind leaders Celtic by just one point. McInnes recently received the Manager of the Month award for September and has guided the team to victories against St Mirren and Aberdeen, securing a spot in the League Cup final.
These achievements are especially meaningful as European competitions yielded no success this season. Early exits from both the Europa League qualifying rounds and the Conference League play-offs shifted the club’s focus solely onto the League Cup and the title race.
McInnes has implemented an aggressive and high-intensity playing style that emphasizes structural discipline, a focus on duelling challenges, and quick transitions. He has publicly urged for improved effectiveness in the final third of the pitch.
This summer, the squad underwent a significant overhaul, particularly in attacking positions. New signings included Algerian winger Badredine Bouanani on loan, Japanese forward Daisuke Yokota, and talented South Korean Kim Min-su. Additionally, Ross McCausland and academy graduate Findlay Curtis provide valuable depth to the team.
However, this shift in roster has affected one player in particular. Djeidi Gassama, who is capable of playing on the left flank or as a versatile attacking midfielder, started the season as a regular but has found himself overshadowed by Bouanani and Kim Min-su.
According to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, Rangers are open to listening to offers for Gassama ahead of the January transfer window. The 23-year-old winger has contributed one goal and four assists over 17 appearances, but may be sold if a strong offer comes in. The club considers him dispensable due to its robust attacking options, and they will not actively seek a sale unless they receive an irresistible proposal.
Gassama has yet to score in the league this season, failing to find the net in his first nine league outings and delivering a disappointing performance against Hearts, where he won only 33% of his ground duels.
Despite his solid work rate, ball control, and ability to draw defenders out of position, Gassama’s limitations in finishing, passing in the final third, and responding to intense physical pressure have hindered his development. His attributes suit McInnes’s demanding style, yet his lack of league goals is a concern for a team needing to compete with Celtic’s scoring power.
Should Rangers cash in on Djeidi Gassama in January?
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – AUGUST 16: Djeidi Gassama of Rangers celebrates after scoring his team’s third goal during the Premier Sports Cup match between Rangers and St Mirren at Ibrox Stadium on August 16, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Considering the current situation, it may be wise for Rangers to capitalize on Gassama’s potential transfer. His playing style does not align with McInnes’s long-term vision, which prioritizes wide players who provide decisive contributions in transition, making a forward without league goals a liability for a squad aiming to match Celtic’s output.
From a financial perspective, with a lack of revenue from European group stages, it would be prudent for Rangers to sell a player attracting international interest. The additions of Bouanani, Kim Min-su, and Yokota already buffer the team against Gassama’s potential exit.
Moreover, the funds from Gassama’s sale could facilitate much-needed upgrades in central midfield, an area that requires urgent attention. As the most likely player to be sold, Gassama’s departure could enable the club to reinforce this critical position.
