Rangers have had a significant offer for Plymouth Argyle’s Morgan Whittaker turned down.
According to the Daily Record, the Scottish club recently made a bid exceeding £7 million for the winger, which the Devon team rejected. This move signals Rangers’ renewed interest in Whittaker, who has been a key target for them.
Plymouth Argyle is currently preparing for the upcoming Championship season under new manager Wayne Rooney, appointed two months ago.
Rooney, a former Manchester United and England icon, is focused on improving the club’s standing after narrowly retaining their second-tier status last season. He aims to keep pivotal players like Whittaker and goalkeeper Michael Cooper despite growing external interest.
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Whittaker’s impressive 2023/24 season, marked by 20 goals and 9 assists in 50 appearances, has attracted attention from several clubs. His performance during his initial loan spell and subsequent permanent move to Plymouth last summer has kept higher-tier clubs interested. Rangers, having previously expressed interest under former manager Michael Beale, have now revived their pursuit under Philippe Clement.
Despite the initial rejection, Rangers are expected to make a second bid, with Whittaker reportedly keen on joining a club that will compete in the UEFA Champions League’s Third Qualifying Round.
Interest in Whittaker isn’t limited to Rangers; Premier League clubs Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brentford, along with VfB Stuttgart, Celta Vigo, and Serie A’s Lazio, are also in the mix. Lazio’s previous £8.5 million bid was turned down in January.
Rooney has acknowledged the interest in Whittaker but emphasized his desire to keep the player at Plymouth. He stated:
“I’m sure there will be bids for him, but from our point of view, he’s an Argyle player and I want to move forward with Morgan.”
Whittaker’s contract with Plymouth runs until 2027, giving the club leverage in transfer negotiations. Despite this, significant offers, such as the reported £15 million interest from Brentford and Fulham earlier this year, could potentially sway the club’s decision.
Ultimately, while Rangers’ initial bid was declined, their continued interest and Whittaker’s desire to join a top-tier club may lead to further developments in this ongoing transfer saga.
