Cyriel Dessers is drawing interest from AEK Athens, and a former Rangers coach has urged the club to seal the deal this summer. The 30 year old Nigerian striker, who joined Rangers from Cremonese in 2023, still has two years left on his contract but AEK are reportedly in advanced discussions and optimistic about finalising a move.
During his time at Ibrox, Dessers scored an impressive 51 goals in 109 appearances, including 29 last season, making him Rangers’ top scorer. Despite his goal return, he divides opinion among the fan base. Now, with Russell Martin reshaping the squad and targeting other striking options like Matija Frigan and Dor Turgeman, Dessers is surplus to requirements.
AEK Athens reportedly aim to sign him for around £5 million a fee that would represent a modest profit on their initial £4.5 million outlay. With the Greek side eager to bolster their front line, momentum is building behind the move, and insiders suggest it could be completed soon.
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Editorial
We see AEK Athens moving wisely. Dessers brings proven goal-scoring ability and experience at a high level. His 29 goal haul last season shows he can deliver consistently, even if fan sentiment is split. That balance of talent and opportunity aligns with AEK’s recruitment strategy, combining ambition with cost efficiency.
From a player’s viewpoint, Dessers might benefit from a fresh start. After feeling peripheral under Russell Martin’s new system, a move to Athens could reinvigorate his career. A change of scenery often unlocks form and he deserves the chance to lead from the front again.
We also note the timing. Signing a striker of his calibre for around £5 million represents smart business for AEK. It fills a key position without overextending finances, while Rangers can reallocate funds to rebuild other areas. This is mutually beneficial and shows savvy planning on both sides.
We believe this transfer can go beyond individual gains. If Dessers adapts and regains form, AEK will see a return in goals, excitement and squad depth. For Dessers, it could be the platform to redefine his legacy. This is a moment ripe with potential and both club and player should act decisively now.
Did You Know?
- Dessers was the Eredivisie top scorer in the 2019–20 season while playing for Heracles Almelo.
- He led the UEFA Europa Conference League in goals during the 2021–22 campaign with Feyenoord, earning a spot in the tournament’s Team of the Season.
- Born in Belgium to a Belgian father and Nigerian mother, Dessers chose to represent Nigeria internationally in December 2019.
- He has scored eight goals in his eight senior caps for Nigeria, including a brace against Ghana in the May 2025 Unity Cup.
- Rangers paid £4.5 million to sign him in 2023 and are seeking around £5 million now, making it a rare transfer that offers both profit and a clean slate.
