Rangers' pursuit of 20‑year‑old Diawara pushes Basel into race

Rangers have entered the race for 20‑year‑old French centre‑back Sankhoun Diawara, with Swiss side FC Basel also reported to be tracking the France U‑19 international. Diawara, who can also operate at left‑back, is set to become a free agent next summer as his contract with Stade de l’Aube expires, prompting Troyes to consider an exit rather than lose him without compensation.

The defender progressed through the youth setups of FC Solitaires, Paris‑Charenton and Troyes before earning a key role with Troyes’ reserve team in 2024. After a handful of sporadic appearances he secured a first‑team place earlier this year and contributed to ESTAC’s Ligue 2 championship and promotion to the top flight.

Diawara logged 17 senior appearances across all competitions last season, the club expects him to feature more regularly while fending off interest from all suitors.

Rangers’ new manager Derek McInnes has vowed to reinforce the squad in the coming months after a disappointing campaign. He has already completed five signings – striker Lawrence Shankland, defender Ross McCrorie, defender Ben Godfrey, midfielder Ivor Pandur and defender Dan Neil.

The club’s back line is being rebuilt after the season‑long loans of Nasser Djiga (from Wolves), Max Aarons (from Bournemouth), Jayden Meghoma (from Brentford) and Derek Cornelius (from Marseille) were terminated. Defender Emmanuel Fernandez has attracted interest from several European clubs, while John Souttar’s form and fitness have been inconsistent and James Tavernier’s exit has left only Dujon Sterling and Tuur Rommens as senior full‑backs from the previous term.

Ross McCrorie and Ben Godfrey bring versatility and experience, with Godfrey expected to partner centrally with Fernandez and Souttar. Rangers still need a younger alternative to serve as a fourth centre‑back option should Fernandez and Souttar remain beyond the current window.

Diawara’s primary role is as a centre‑half, but his comfort at left‑back adds balance and creates passing lanes for a team’s build‑up from the back. A move to Rangers would give him a high‑ceiling environment, the chance to chase silverware and compete in European competition.

John Souttar appeared dejected after the final whistle of Rangers’ 0‑0 draw with Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League Play‑offs first leg on 19 August 2025 at Ibrox Stadium. The image was captured by photographer Ian MacNicol.