Credit: Imago
Thu 14 August 2025 18:10, UK
Rangers have launched a bid for Sheffield Wednesday and Northern Ireland goalkeeper Pierce Charles.
The Gers are looking to sign a talented understudy to number one Jack Butland this summer, and have also registered their interest in Arsenal shot-stopper Karl Hein.
Butland has started the year well for Russell Martin’s side, but the Englishman’s drop-off in form at the end of last season has encouraged Rangers’ decision-makers to find an eventual successor.
Rangers have already made eight signings this summer, and are looking to further bolster their options after a poor start to the Scottish Premiership season.
Hein has also been linked with a move to Rangers (Credit: Imago)Dejphon Chansiri sets ‘unreasonable’ Pierce Charles demands
Rangers’ opening bid for Charles was worth more than £1million, with Premier League club West Ham also attempting to sign the 20-year-old.
The goalkeeper made his breakthrough at Sheffield Wednesday last season, appearing in the Owls’ final eight Championship fixtures as they finished 12th.
And the former Manchester City talent has started the season well, starring with two penalty saves against Bolton on Wednesday as his side progressed to the next round of the Carabao Cup.
The situation at Sheffield Wednesday has thrown doubt over the futures of every player at Hillsborough, however.
Owner Dejphon Chansiri is facing mass protest from fans of Wednesday and the wider footballing world, who are demanding that the Thai businessman sells the club.
Players and staff have failed to receive their wages in most months, and payments have been made late to HMRC, leading to a transfer ban at Hillsborough – although this has now been partially lifted.
Wednesday have already received around £2.2m from Rangers this summer, for the transfer of Djeidi Gassama.
But Chansiri appears to be unwilling to let the Gers take another of the Owls’ young talents, in Charles.
According to Alex Crook on 14 August, Rangers have walked away from the potential deal due to Chansiri’s “unreasonable” transfer demands.
Understand Rangers and West Ham have both walked away from potential deals for #SWFC GK Pierce Charles due to owner Dejphon Chansiri’s ‘unreasonable’ transfer demands. Charles has shown great commitment to the club in tough times and is still on a minimal salary for the Champ.
— Alex Crook ⚽️🎙 (@alex_crook) August 14, 2025
View Tweet
Rangers must look elsewhere for Jack Butland cover
Charles would be seen as an impressive signing for Rangers. The 20-year-old is already a regular for Northern Ireland and could well hold huge value in the future.
But with decision-makers now set to look elsewhere, a return for Hein could be on the cards.
The goalkeeper is set to leave Arsenal this summer and could be available for a minimal price.
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