Aris Thessaloniki continue their pursuit of Scotland centre-back John Souttar ahead of the Greek transfer window's closure on 15 September 2026, but a significant obstacle remains unresolved. Rangers have resisted the 29-year-old defender's demand to receive compensation for the final year of his Ibrox contract as part of any departure agreement.
According to reports from the United States, Rangers and Aris have reached terms on the transfer itself, with Souttar expected to travel to Greece on 13 September 2026 to complete a three-year move. The Greek club have secured a €1.2 million agreement for the defender, who had been frozen out at Rangers and was seeking a fresh start abroad.
The Thessaloniki club accelerated their defensive recruitment after suffering a heavy defeat to AEK in Nea Filadelfia, making Souttar a priority target before the window shuts. The sticking point centres on whether Rangers will release funds to cover Souttar's remaining salary, a common practice in football when a player moves on before their contract expires.
What happens next for Souttar?
If the financial dispute is resolved, Souttar faces a tight timeline to complete his move. He must arrive in Greece and finalise all paperwork before the 15 September 2026 deadline to ensure Aris can register him for the remainder of the season. Any delay in resolving the pay-off question could jeopardise the entire transfer.
Changes in Rangers' backroom staff
Simon Ireland has departed his position as Rangers set-piece coach after a brief tenure lasting only months. He replaced Scott Fry, who departed for Birmingham City during the summer transfer window. Ireland had been appointed on 22 July 2026 and was scheduled to begin work immediately, including a place on the bench for a friendly against St-Etienne that evening.
International recognition for Rangers players
Germany-born Rangers striker Ryan Naderi has been included in a preliminary squad list for the Czech Republic's upcoming Nations League fixtures this month, having previously declined a call-up from Bulgaria. The forward's inclusion represents recognition of his performances at club level.
Rangers attacker Kim Min-su, aged 20, has received his first senior call-up from South Korea, marking a significant milestone in his international career.
Scotland squad developments
New Scotland head coach Sebastien Pocognoli will name his first squad on Tuesday, with several players set to receive their first call-ups. Celtic right-back Colby Donovan, 20, and Hull City forward Oli McBurnie, 30, are expected to be included in the squad announcement.
McBurnie is hoping his recent club performances have done enough to earn a recall to the Scotland set-up for the first time since March 2021. Pocognoli's first assignment will see Scotland face Slovenia, with Manchester United's €73 million striker Benjamin Sesko expected to receive his first call-up for the Slovenian national team in a year.
Injury setbacks for Scottish clubs
Dundee have been dealt a blow with defender Joe Wright, 31, and midfielder Charlie Reilly, 24, both facing weeks on the sidelines. The pair sustained injuries during a bounce game against Falkirk on Thursday.
Heart of Midlothian midfielder Blair Spittal has undergone surgery and begun rehabilitation following a leg injury picked up earlier this month in a match against Hibernian. The midfielder's recovery timeline remains uncertain as he works through his rehabilitation programme.
Key Facts
- Aris Thessaloniki have agreed a €1.2 million deal for Souttar but face a contract pay-off dispute with Rangers
- The Greek transfer deadline closes on 15 September 2026, with Souttar expected to travel on 13 September 2026
- Simon Ireland has left his role as Rangers set-piece coach after replacing Scott Fry
- Sebastien Pocognoli names his first Scotland squad on Tuesday, with McBurnie and Donovan expected to feature
- Multiple Scottish players face injury layoffs, including Dundee's Wright and Reilly, and Hearts' Spittal
