Rohl's Salzburg Switch Edges Closer
The managerial carousel in Scottish football is spinning at full tilt, with Rangers head coach Danny Rohl on the verge of a move to Austrian giants RB Salzburg. Contracts have been agreed between all parties, according to reports, with the Ibrox club set to receive around £2 million in compensation for the German tactician. However, a final sticking point remains: Rohl's desire to take his entire backroom team with him to Austria. Negotiations are ongoing, but the deal is expected to be completed soon.
Rohl, who has impressed since taking over at Rangers, has long been admired by Salzburg, and the chance to move to a club known for developing young talent and competing in the Champions League was too tempting to turn down. The move will see him follow in the footsteps of previous Salzburg coaches who have gone on to bigger things, like Jesse Marsch and Marco Rose.
McInnes Poised for Ibrox Return
As Rohl departs, Heart of Midlothian manager Derek McInnes is the man chosen to fill the void at Ibrox. The former Aberdeen boss has reportedly agreed personal terms and is ready to take on the challenge of leading Scotland's most successful club. McInnes, who previously played for Rangers, has rebuilt his reputation at Hearts, guiding them to a top-six finish and instilling a disciplined, pressing style. The move is seen as a homecoming for the 54-year-old, who will be tasked with closing the gap on Celtic and delivering silverware.
A source close to the situation told BBC Sport:
“It’s a done deal in principle. Both clubs have agreed the compensation, and Derek is excited about the opportunity.”However, no official announcement is expected until Hearts finalize their own search for a successor.
Hearts Begin Search for New Manager
With McInnes heading to Glasgow, Hearts are wasting no time in identifying his replacement. Senior officials have compiled a shortlist and will begin formal interviews this week. The club hopes to make an appointment within 10 days, ensuring minimal disruption ahead of pre-season. Informal talks have already been held with candidates from Britain and abroad, with the new manager expected to be in place before the squad reports back on 25 June and flies out to a training camp in Spain.
One name that has emerged as a potential candidate is Gonçalo Feio, who recently departed Tondela following their relegation from the Portuguese top flight. However, Feio also has options in Poland and Scandinavia, making his availability uncertain. Motherwell are also in the final stages of their own managerial hunt, with Feio on their three-man shortlist.
Stewart Nears West Brom Switch
Amid the managerial drama, a notable transfer is also brewing in the lower leagues. Falkirk striker Barney Stewart is close to completing a seven-figure move to West Bromwich Albion. The 22-year-old has attracted interest from several English Championship clubs after a prolific season, and the Baggies appear to have won the race. Stewart's pace and finishing ability have made him one of Scotland's brightest prospects outside the top flight, and the deal represents a significant windfall for Falkirk. The transfer is expected to be finalized in the coming days, with a medical already penciled in.
Other Gossip: Fernandes, van Bronckhorst, and Rice
Bayer Leverkusen have renewed their interest in Rangers centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez, but the Ibrox side are demanding at least £25 million for the 24-year-old, placing him potentially as a record sale. Fernandez is also on the radar of several Premier League clubs. Meanwhile, former Rangers boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst is set to return to Feyenoord as head coach, leaving his role as assistant at Liverpool. And teenage midfielder Bailey Rice has agreed a new contract at Rangers despite interest from Ajax, Leeds United, and others.
Quick Facts
Rohl Compensation: Rangers to receive £2 million from RB Salzburg
McInnes' Previous Club: Heart of Midlothian
Stewart Fee: Seven-figure sum, undisclosed
Hearts' Timeline: New manager within 10 days
Fernandez Price Tag: At least £25 million
Key Takeaways
- Danny Rohl's move to RB Salzburg is virtually complete, with only backroom staff negotiations delaying an announcement.
- Derek McInnes is set to take over at Rangers, marking a return to his boyhood club.
- Hearts are actively interviewing replacements and aim to appoint a new manager quickly.
- Falkirk's Barney Stewart is on the verge of a lucrative move to West Brom.
- The managerial market in Scotland is in for a busy summer, with several clubs seeking new bosses.