Penrice Might Return to Britain as AEK Weighs Rangers Move

AEK Athens Look for a New Left‑Back

Greek outlet Sportime says AEK Athens could soon open formal talks to sign a replacement for their current left‑back. The story quickly pointed to James Penrice as a potential target if the price is right. Transfer Feed highlighted Rangers as a likely destination should the Athens club decide to let him go.

Penrice is 27 and arrived last summer from Hearts for £2 million. His contract runs until June 2028, giving AEK leverage despite his apparent desire to come back to Britain. The Greeks appear ready to negotiate, and expectations are that any eventual fee will fall below the original £2 million.

Rangers’ Stats on Penrice’s Greek Spell

In his sole season with AEK, Penrice made 20 appearances in the Greek Super League. That equates to 1,367 minutes on the pitch, during which he netted no goals. He collected seven yellow cards, averaged 1.71 tackles and 0.86 interceptions per 90 minutes, and posted a clearance rate of 2.83 per 90.

The numbers do not paint a glowing picture, especially for a team that captured the league title. Seven bookings in just 20 matches suggest a tactical mismatch or difficulty adjusting to the league’s pace. While not a disaster, the metrics leave a question mark over his current level.

Why Penrice’s Hearts Form Matters

His final campaign at Hearts was standout. He scooped the club’s player‑of‑the‑year award and earned a place in the PFA Scotland Team of the Year for 2024‑25. That season was described as one of the most complete left‑back performances seen in the Scottish Premiership in recent years.

The contrast between his Scottish brilliance and the Greek struggle raises concerns about consistency. One towering year in Edinburgh followed by a mixed spell in Greece puts a large question mark over where he currently stands.

Rangers’ Vacancy and McInnes’ Priorities

Rangers manager McInnes has been clear about his transfer wishlist: a left‑sided centre‑back, a right winger, and a central midfielder top the list. A left‑back was never explicitly mentioned, but the loan departures have left a noticeable hole on that flank. The club relied on Jayden Meghoma for large stretches before Tuur Rommen’s arrival in January, and now that loan spell is over.

Penrice’s price tag could be a factor, but Rangers cannot afford to spend near the £2 million AEK originally paid. If the Greeks cut the cost significantly—perhaps below £1 million—and Penrice is willing to battle for his place, the deal could become viable. However, the club must be cautious about a player who has shown inconsistency at the top level.

Alternative Target: Corrie Ndaba

Another name circulating this month is Corrie Ndaba, who can operate as both a left‑back and a centre‑back. His versatility makes him a smarter fit for McInnes’ stated needs, and he is thought to be priced comparably to Penrice. A cut‑price acquisition of Ndaba could give Rangers the depth they need while staying frugal.

The decision hinges on whether AEK are willing to lower their valuation and whether Penrice accepts a reduced role. Rangers cannot afford a gamble; they need a player who hits the ground running, not one still searching for confidence after a turbulent season abroad.