An exit from Rangers is now ‘inevitable’ as Crystal Palace open talks with his camp

Crystal Palace have opened talks with the Rangers player’s representatives, with an exit from Ibrox now described as ‘inevitable’.

Palace will enter the second leg of the semi-finals of the Europa Conference League in a strong position after a 3-1 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk.

It was a game built on sharp finishing and organized defending, with Palace striking early and managing the game well despite the long ball.

The result gave them a clear lead ahead of the return to Selhurst Park and put them within touching distance of a first major European final.

Momentum is clearly on Oliver Glasner’s side right now.

Confidence is high, performances are improving, and there is a growing belief around the club that this could be a defining moment.

Glasner, who has confirmed he will leave south London at the end of 2025/2026, is looking to move on despite being the best manager in Palace’s history.

If Palace win the Conference League, they will gain direct entry into next season’s Europa League – which was removed from them earlier this campaign in favor of Nottingham Forest.

Although the focus remains on completing the project in Europe, planning for the future has not stopped.

Behind the scenes, Palace are already navigating the transfer market and looking for Glasner’s successor, and one of their latest targets is the young Scottish star.

Bailey Rice ‘inevitable’ Rangers exit as Crystal Palace hold talks

Bailey Rice is a player attracting attention, and TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey suggests Palace are open to talks with his representatives about a possible move.

The Rangers youngster is regarded as a very promising talent, and it is expected to be ‘inevitable’ that he will leave Ibrox this summer, with his contract expiring at the end of this month.

The Teddy Bears have tried to extend his current terms, but are believed to have been unable to come to an agreement with Rice despite negotiations.

At just 19 years old, Rice is still in the early stages of his career, but he has already gained experience in senior football.

The attacking midfielder has featured in the Scottish Premiership and European competitions, showing glimpses of his ability despite limited playing time.

Throughout his Rangers career so far, he has made a career-high 16 appearances in all competitions.

The situation at Rangers appears to be a key factor.

Opportunities are limited, despite former Gers managers such as Michael Beale calling him a ‘player’, and there have been indications that Rice is looking for a clear path to regular football.

That has opened up interest from elsewhere, with many clubs beyond Palace also in the hunt and in talks.

For Palace, the appeal is in line with their extensive recruitment model. In recent seasons, they have looked to bring in young players with room to grow, rather than focusing only on established names.

Rice would fall into that category – a long-term investment rather than a short-term solution.

Of course, any move would have risks.

The young Scottish player is still developing and has yet to show a full season at the top level. Promotion to the Premier League would be crucial, and patience would be required.

However, Palace seem determined to take this game. The belief is that with the right environment and training, Rice can develop into a key first-team option in the future.

Currently, negotiations are ongoing, and no agreement has been finalized.

As things stand, the focus is on the pitch, where Palace are chasing European success. But other than that, it’s just like this the club is thinking ahead, identifying young talent and planning what’s next.