Glasgow Rangers Plot Contract Move as Leeds United Circle

Rangers have taken decisive action to ward off growing interest in midfielder Nicolas Raskin, with both Leeds United and Aston Villa circling ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 24-year-old Belgian, who joined the Gers from Standard Liège in January 2023, has quickly become one of the club’s most important assets. Under former manager Michael Beale, Raskin settled seamlessly into life at Ibrox, and this season he has produced three goals and eight assists in 45 appearances — a key contributor in the centre of the park.

Rangers legend Peter Løvenkrands recently hailed Raskin as “potentially the most valuable player in the squad,” and the club’s hierarchy seem to agree. TEAMtalk reports that Rangers are preparing a significant offer to extend the midfielder’s contract beyond its current 2027 expiry date.

The club’s proactive approach comes amid increasing pressure from south of the border. Leeds United, newly promoted to the Premier League, view Raskin as a high-calibre addition to their squad. Unai Emery’s Aston Villa are also understood to admire his adaptability and high-pressing qualities.

Despite the allure of English football and the potential for improved wages, Rangers are confident they can retain their talisman. Sources suggest the Glasgow club are keen to emphasise Raskin’s central role in their future domestic and European ambitions — a persuasive pitch given the player’s desire to maintain regular game time.

Speaking last month, Raskin reflected on his development and hinted at a thoughtful approach to his next career step.

“You have to see what the club wants, what is on the table and try to do the best for everyone,” he told The National. “It’s clear that good European performances are significant assets for attracting big teams. But the aim isn’t to go to a club where you’ll play less and lose that advantage you have of playing every week.”

Although TEAMtalk suggest clubs from Germany and Italy are also monitoring Raskin, Rangers are firm in their stance — the midfielder is not for sale, and they are actively working to tie him down with an improved contract. His performances have won over the Ibrox faithful, and losing him would be a major blow.

However, Rangers’ broader transfer model — investing in young players with resale potential — does mean no player is completely off the market. The balancing act now will be to convince Raskin that his ambitions can still be met in Govan.

Site Opinion

Nicolas Raskin has emerged as the heartbeat of Rangers’ midfield and a symbol of the club’s forward-looking recruitment strategy. While interest from Premier League sides is inevitable given his form, Rangers’ swift action to open contract talks is a statement of intent. With European football and regular starts on offer at Ibrox, the Gers still hold valuable cards — and if they play them right, Raskin’s future could remain in Glasgow, not Leeds.