GLASGOW — Rangers are in advanced preparations for a managerial transition, with current head coach Danny Röhl expected to depart Ibrox to join Austrian side RB Salzburg. As the club faces the exit of its German boss, Hearts manager Derek McInnes has emerged as the primary target to take charge at Ibrox.

Managerial Transition at Ibrox

Rangers have formally approached Heart of Midlothian to request permission to open talks with Derek McInnes. The Ibrox hierarchy has identified the 54-year-old as their top candidate to lead the squad ahead of the upcoming pre-season, which is scheduled to commence next week.

The move follows news that Danny Röhl is on the verge of finalizing a deal with RB Salzburg. The Austrian club has identified Röhl as the preferred successor for their vacant head coaching role, and negotiations between the two clubs are in their final stages, with a seven-figure compensation fee expected to be agreed upon.

McInnes’ Credentials

Derek McInnes is viewed as the ideal successor given his successful 2025/26 campaign at Tynecastle. Under his leadership, Hearts secured a second-place finish in the Scottish Premiership, coming within minutes of clinching their first league title since 1960. His performance earned him widespread recognition, including the Scottish Premiership Manager of the Year award.

Having previously played for Rangers, McInnes’ potential appointment is seen as a strategic move by the Ibrox board to stabilize the club and build upon the competitive foundation established over the past season.

Next Steps

While Hearts are expected to grant permission for formal talks to proceed, the club is already preparing for the eventuality of McInnes’ departure by identifying potential replacements. Rangers are keen to conclude the appointment swiftly, as the first-team squad is due to return to Auchenhowie next week to begin preparations for the new season, with an additional training camp already penciled in for July in Austria.