The two clubs could be set for some big trades in the summer window
16:14, 09 Jun 2026Updated 16:14, 09 Jun 2026
Andrew Cavanagh (right) and Paraag Marathe(Image: PA)
A player trading relationship between Rangers and Leeds United looks to be taking a step forward days after Paraag Marathe’s address.
Last week the American declared he is still ‘very involved’ at Rangers despite stepping down as vice-chairman earlier this year – while also acting as chairman at Elland Road.
Marathe of 49ers Enterprises stepped down from the Ibrox board alongside fellow director Gene Schneur in February after talks with UEFA about their rules on multi-club ownership – but claimed a transfer agreement between the Premier League and Scottish Premiership sides would be beneficial.
A potential move for Joe Gelhardt to Glasgow looks to be taking a step forward with the Yorkshire Evening Post stating he will hold “talks” with Leeds chiefs over his future.
The 24-year-old spent last season on loan at Hull City – and helped the club secure promotion to the Premier League via that playoff spots.
But after his return to his parent club, the Tigers reportedly face a battle to get the forward back with Rangers on the agenda.
It is said Leeds are “reluctant” to lose the player for nothing next summer when his contract runs out, and a loan move is likely to be off the table.
Player turned agent Stephen Hunt told the 1904 Club podcast that the player should look to take a gamble in the English top flight – rather than north of the border.
He said: “Joe Gelhardt, I think he’s a very, very good player. I think he can play in the Premier League. He never really had that opportunity.
“He had a flash with it with Leeds. I think he’s ready to play in the Premier League, and he can be effective. You look at Jarrod Bowen, who’s a left-footed right-winger who’s scored goals in the Premier League.”
(Image: Ian Tuttle/Shutterstock)
Rangers have also been touted with reviving their interest in Joel Piroe – after a deal collapsed late in the January window.
The striker told Leeds United bosses he wanted to stay in Yorkshire and fight for a first team place – before the Ibrox club pushed through a late move for Ryan Naderi.
But the player struggled for regular minutes after the kibosh, and reports south of the border suggest Piroe could be moved on.
The Yorkshire Post report that a move to Rangers is “on ice” as the player and Rangers weigh up their summer options.
Speaking last season, the frontman conceded that he would have to evaluate a summer exit, adding: “It’s sometimes difficult to convince someone to give you more chances to show that you’re taking the right steps.”
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