Bailey Rice Shuns Rivals, Commits His Future to Rangers with New Long-Term Deal

In a massive show of loyalty and belief in the club’s future, highly-rated young midfielder Bailey Rice has officially put pen to paper on a new long-term contract with Rangers FC, despite serious interest from other clubs — including a strong approach from arch-rivals Celtic.

The 18-year-old, who has been tipped as one of Scotland’s brightest midfield prospects, had attracted attention from multiple sides after a string of impressive performances at youth and senior levels. However, Rice made it clear from the beginning: his heart was set on staying at Ibrox.

“It wasn’t a difficult decision,” Rice said after signing the deal. “Rangers is my club. I grew up dreaming of playing here, wearing the badge, and representing the fans. I’m grateful for the interest from other teams, but there’s no better place for me to grow and fight for success.”

Sources close to the player reveal that Rice turned down significantly more lucrative financial offers elsewhere, prioritizing playing time, development, and loyalty over immediate rewards. Celtic, among others, had made a serious effort to tempt the young midfielder, but their approach was firmly rejected early in talks.

Rice, who joined Rangers from Motherwell in 2022, has enjoyed a meteoric rise within the club’s academy, earning praise for his leadership, passing range, and maturity beyond his years. His commitment to Rangers represents a major boost for the club’s future plans under new sporting director Kevin Thelwell, who has stressed the importance of building around young, hungry Scottish talent.

Thelwell, speaking after the announcement, praised Rice’s character:
“Bailey represents everything we want in a Rangers player — talent, hunger, loyalty, and a true understanding of what it means to wear the shirt. Securing his future here sends a strong message about the direction we are heading.”

The new contract is seen internally at Rangers as not just an important retention of talent, but also a powerful statement of identity: that the club can still inspire the best young players to believe in the journey, even amidst a competitive transfer market.

For Rice, the future looks bright — and he’s determined to make his mark not just as a promising academy graduate, but as a key figure for Rangers for years to come.

“There’s so much more I want to achieve here,” Rice added. “This club is built on history, but it’s also about creating new memories. I’m here to work hard, fight for every minute, and bring success back to Ibrox.”

In a summer that promises plenty of changes at Ibrox, the decision of a player like Bailey Rice to commit long-term — turning down rivals and staying true to his club — will be seen by fans as more than just good business.
It’s a reminder that some players still understand what it really means to be a Ranger.