Rangers complete loan move for Marseille defender Derek Cornelius

Published 1st Sep 2025
Last updated 1st Sep 2025

Rangers have completed the signing of Marseille defender Derek Cornelius.

The 27-year-old has signed on an initial loan deal and could make a permanent move next summer.

Cornelius made 24 appearances for Marseille following a move from Malmo in 2024.

He has also played for Javor Ivanjica in Cyprus and Vancouver Whitecaps in his native Canada.

Cornelius has appeared 35 times for his national team.

Russell Martin has now signed three central defenders this window after the arrivals of Nasser Djiga and Emmanuel Fernandez arrived from England.

It is also the Ibrox side's second deadline day signing with Everton striker Youssef Chermiti joining in a deal that could reach £10million.

Cyriel Dessers has joined Panathinaikos for around £3.7million.

Russell Martin told the club's official website: “We are delighted to welcome Derek to Rangers.

"His experience and leadership will be vital in enhancing our backline whilst adding a left-sided defender adds further balance to the squad.

“He featured heavily in a top league last season, highlighting his qualities, and we are confident he will shine further in a Rangers jersey.

"I am looking forward to working with him following the conclusion of the international break.”

Cornelius added: “I am excited to be here, and I am excited to finally get going.

“What excited me is that it is such a massive club with such a passionate fanbase so that is always exciting playing in front of fans that are going to support you and really push you over the edge.

"It is always something that every footballer looks forward to, so I am looking forward to playing in front of these supporters, giving it my all and winning a lot of matches.”

--

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.