Kris Boyd is never shy about stirring up controversy when it comes to Rangers and Celtic, and his latest comments about Greg Taylor are a prime example. Suggesting that Taylor could swap Celtic Park for Ibrox at the end of the season is a bold claim—even by Boyd’s standards. While the former Rangers striker is known for his outspoken opinions, this particular suggestion seems more like an attempt to create headlines than a realistic possibility.
There is no denying that Taylor’s contract situation has raised questions about his future. The left-back’s current deal is set to expire in the summer, and with Celtic already securing Kieran Tierney on a pre-contract agreement from Arsenal, speculation about Taylor’s next move is inevitable. However, the idea that he would make the direct switch to Rangers seems highly improbable for several reasons—both footballing and personal.
Greg Taylor’s Celtic Career and Loyalty
Since joining Celtic from Kilmarnock in 2019, Taylor has been a committed and consistent performer. He has played a crucial role in multiple league title wins and has been one of the most reliable full-backs in Scotland over the last few seasons. Initially, some fans doubted whether he could fill the void left by Kieran Tierney when he first arrived, but Taylor has proven himself time and time again, particularly under Ange Postecoglou, where he flourished in the inverted full-back role.
Despite growing up a Rangers fan, Taylor has given everything to Celtic during his time at the club. In the heated world of Scottish football, very few players have successfully switched between the two Glasgow giants without major backlash. It’s not just about ability—it’s about identity, history, and the deep-rooted rivalry between the two clubs. A player who has lifted multiple trophies with Celtic and represented the club in Europe would face enormous scrutiny from both sets of supporters if he chose to wear the blue of Rangers next season.
Boyd’s Argument: Is Taylor an Upgrade for Rangers?
Boyd’s argument is that Taylor is a better left-back than Rangers’ current options—Ridvan Yilmaz and Jefte. On that front, he’s not necessarily wrong. Yilmaz, despite being a highly-rated signing from Besiktas, has struggled to justify the transfer fee Rangers paid for him. Injuries and inconsistency have prevented him from cementing a starting spot, while Jefte is still an unknown quantity at this level.
Taylor, by contrast, has been one of the most reliable defenders in the league for several seasons. His experience, defensive stability, and attacking contributions would make him an attractive option for any club looking for a left-back. However, just because Taylor would be an upgrade doesn’t mean a move to Rangers is remotely realistic.
The Reality of Transfers Between Celtic and Rangers
Transfers between Celtic and Rangers are incredibly rare, and when they do happen, they often create enormous controversy. The most infamous example is Maurice Johnston, who, after initially agreeing to rejoin Celtic in 1989, stunned the football world by signing for Rangers instead. The move sparked outrage, and to this day, it remains one of the most talked-about transfers in Scottish football history.
More recently, there have been a few players who have played for both clubs, such as Kenny Miller, Mark Brown, and Liam Burt, but these cases are outliers. Even when a player is available on a free transfer, the pressure from both fanbases makes such moves almost impossible. Would Taylor really want to put himself through that kind of backlash, especially after years of loyal service to Celtic?
What’s Next for Taylor?
A more realistic outcome for Taylor would be a move to England or abroad. Several Premier League clubs and teams from Europe would likely be interested in signing a left-back of his quality and experience. A move to the Championship or a mid-table Premier League side could offer him the regular football he desires, without the controversy of crossing the Glasgow divide.
Additionally, Taylor has always been professional in his approach. Even with Tierney returning, he hasn’t publicly expressed any discontent, nor has he suggested he would be open to a move to Rangers. His focus has been on playing football and contributing to Celtic, whether as a starter or as a key squad player.
Boyd’s Agenda?
Kris Boyd’s punditry is known for being provocative, and this latest claim seems designed more to wind up Celtic fans than to provide genuine insight. He knows exactly how such a statement will be received and thrives on the reaction it generates. Boyd frequently criticizes both Celtic and Rangers players, but his comments about Taylor feel particularly far-fetched.
Celtic supporters will likely dismiss Boyd’s claims outright, while Rangers fans may have mixed reactions. Some might welcome the idea of signing an experienced Scotland international for free, while others may not be comfortable with the idea of bringing in a former Celtic player.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the idea of Greg Taylor joining Rangers seems highly unlikely. While his contract situation makes him an attractive prospect for other clubs, a move to Ibrox would be one of the most shocking transfers in Scottish football history. The rivalry, the history, and the backlash from both sets of fans make it an almost impossible scenario.
Boyd’s comments may generate debate, but the reality is that Taylor is far more likely to move to England or Europe than to sign for Celtic’s biggest rivals. If he does leave Parkhead, it will almost certainly be on his own terms and to a club where he can continue playing at a high level—without the baggage that would come with a switch to Rangers.
What do you think? Could you ever see Taylor making that move, or is this just another case of Boyd trying to stir the pot?