Exclusive: Cyriel Dessers Reveals Post-Rangers Ambitions as Exit Rumours Grow

Glasgow Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers has admitted he is unlikely to end his career in Scotland and is open to playing elsewhere before retiring.

The Nigerian international joined the Ibrox club from Italian side Cremonese in 2023, having previously played in Belgium, the Netherlands and Italy.

Impressive goal record at Rangers

Since arriving in Scotland, the 30-year-old has scored 51 goals in 109 appearances for Rangers. He was the Scottish Premiership's top scorer last season with 18 goals.

Dessers began his professional career in Belgium with OH Leuven and Lokeren. He later enjoyed a successful period in the Netherlands, representing clubs such as NAC Breda, Utrecht, Heracles, and Feyenoord. 

At Feyenoord, he became a fan favourite by netting a record 10 goals in the Europa Conference League and 20 goals across all competitions that season.

“Let me say something more exotic”

With the forward now entering the latter stages of his career, Dessers was asked by SportsBoom where he sees himself finishing his playing days.

"It's a hard choice, let me say something more exotic," Dessers told SportsBoom.com. 

"But let me say a place like Japan, United States (MLS), South Africa or Nigeria. It would be nice to play there."

He ruled out ending his career in Scotland, the Netherlands or his native Belgium.

Speculation over summer transfer

There has been mounting speculation surrounding Dessers’ future at Ibrox, with reports linking him to Greek side AEK Athens. Talks are reportedly ongoing between the two clubs, with Rangers said to be demanding £5m for the striker, while AEK are hoping to negotiate a fee closer to £3.8m.

"I still have two years left on my contract with Rangers. It’s a fantastic club, and I’m happy there,"

"When you score that number of goals, it’s normal for other teams to show interest. I’ve seen the links with Olympiacos, but I don’t know anything specific about that. These kinds of rumours are normal." Dessers said in previous report by SportsBoom.com. 

Contract runs until 2027

Dessers is currently contracted with Rangers until 2027. 

However, despite his goal-scoring numbers, he has struggled at times to fully win over the club’s supporters and media, fuelling continued discussion about a possible departure from Glasgow this summer.