Rangers have announced the signing of Australian international midfielder Cammy Devlin on a free transfer, following his departure from Hearts. The 28-year-old has penned a two-year contract at Ibrox, which includes an option for a further 12 months. Devlin's arrival marks the third significant acquisition for Rangers from Tynecastle this summer, underscoring a strategic shift in recruitment for the Glasgow club.
Devlin expressed his enthusiasm for the move, stating it was "an absolute honour and privilege" to join Rangers. He highlighted the timing of his arrival, citing the appointment of manager Derek McInnes and other changes at the club as making it a particularly opportune moment. Having spent five years in Scotland with Hearts, where he made 171 appearances and scored eight goals, Devlin is well-acquainted with the Scottish Premiership and the stature of his new club.
The midfielder was a key performer for Hearts, particularly noted for his defensive contributions. Last season, he led the Premiership in tackles per 90 minutes and ranked highly among midfielders for interceptions, defensive contributions, and recoveries. His consistent performances for Hearts reportedly made him a target for Rangers, who are keen to bolster their squad with proven domestic talent.
Devlin joins former Hearts striker Lawrence Shankland, who moved to Ibrox prior to representing Scotland at the World Cup, and manager Derek McInnes, who also made the switch from Tynecastle after Danny Rohl's departure for RB Salzburg. This trio of arrivals from a direct Premiership rival suggests a clear strategy from the Ibrox hierarchy to recruit top-tier Scottish league players, particularly those available without a transfer fee.
Manager Derek McInnes, who previously worked with Devlin at Hearts, praised the midfielder's consistency and highlighted his understanding of the Scottish league. While some Rangers supporters have raised questions about Devlin's on-ball performance for a team expected to dominate possession, statistics from last season show he completed more accurate passes per 90 minutes than all but four other Premiership midfielders, including Rangers' Nicolas Raskin. Devlin is expected to join the squad after returning from his holiday.