Rangers are poised to sell midfielder Nicolas Raskin to La Liga side Villarreal in a deal worth £17 million, according to sources in Spain. The Belgian international, who impressed at the World Cup, has attracted interest from several clubs, including Manchester United, but Villarreal have stolen a march and are expected to complete the signing imminently.
Raskin Exit to Fund New Signings
The £17m fee (€20m) would provide Rangers manager Derek McInnes with the financial flexibility to strengthen his squad. McInnes had previously admitted he needed to sell before adding new players, and Raskin's departure is likely to unlock the necessary funds.
Raskin's move would make him Villarreal boss Inigo Perez's first signing. The Belgian has been a key figure for Rangers since his arrival, and his exit would leave a gap in midfield that the club aims to fill with two young talents.
Hjerto-Dahl Deal Back on Track
Rangers' pursuit of Tromso midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl appeared to be at risk of collapse, but freelance journalist Sam Cohen reports that a third bid from Rangers has led to 'significant progress'. The deal, valued at £6.6 million (€7.8m), is now back on the cards after Hjerto-Dahl expressed his desire to move to Ibrox.
The 20-year-old Norwegian has been a target for several clubs, and his addition would provide youthful energy and creativity in midfield. While uncertainty remains, the latest developments suggest a breakthrough is imminent.
Dragojevic Move Nears Completion
Meanwhile, Rangers are close to securing a £4 million deal for Partizan Belgrade captain Vanja Dragojevic. The 20-year-old midfielder is expected to complete his move to Ibrox after two years with the Serbian club. Partizan boss Sasa Ilic has already wished his captain well, acknowledging the financial pressures that necessitated the sale.
Ilic said: "Our previous captain Vanja has now left us and I wish him all the best in his future career. Every coach in the world wants as many quality players as possible to increase the competition, but it depends on the possibilities and certain things within the club. I hope that we will bring in a few more names who will bring extra class, which is much needed after his departure."
Ilic added: "We have already signed four new players, but it is clear we will need some more new players now. Partizan works in such a way that we are dependent on selling players due to our financial issues."
Double Swoop to Replace Raskin
If both deals go through, Rangers will have invested approximately £12 million in Hjerto-Dahl and Dragojevic, effectively using the bulk of the Raskin fee to reinforce their midfield. The double swoop would address the immediate need for depth and quality, with both players seen as long-term investments.
The moves signal Rangers' intent to remain competitive domestically and in Europe, despite the loss of a key player. With the transfer window still open, further activity cannot be ruled out as McInnes looks to shape his squad for the upcoming season.
