In his pre-Scottish Cup press conference (as per Rangers TV), Rangers boss Michael Beale admitted his interest and admiration for Nicolas Raskin. The Gers have been chasing the Standard Liege star for quite some time and are expected to tie him down before the window is slammed shut by the end of this month.
“A very good player. I’m aware that his contract expires in the summer – he is attracting a lot of attention. There is interest from us, but there is interest from a lot of others. I like to compliment good players. He certainly is one”.
Belgian football reporter Sacha Tavolieri revealed the same a few days ago citing advanced negotiations between Rangers and the player’s camp. Beale’s comments approve the story that has been doing the rounds.
?? Infos #mercato :
???????? Ça bouge pour Nicolas #Raskin ! Interêt concret et discussions avancées avec les #RangersFC. Plus d’infos et détails dans les prochains jours… ??#RSCL pic.twitter.com/awIL867zQW
— Sacha Tavolieri (@sachatavolieri) January 19, 2023
The 21-year-old Belgium youth international spent his academy years at Liege, Anderlecht and Gent. He made his senior debut for Gent at the age of 16 before returning to his boyhood club back in January 2019. Raskin eventually secured a regular status as he also played against the Light Blues in the Europa League when Beale was assisting Steven Gerrard at Ibrox.
Why Rangers Must Step Up The Chase
The youngster, a pillar in Les Rouches midfield, featured week in and week out under Ronny Deila. However, he has been removed from the squad since the season resumed after the FIFA World Cup break and Liege, too, are willing to let him leave even for a minuscule fee over losing for nothing once his contract expires at the end of the current campaign. They tried their level best to extend his services beyond this season, but the Belgian is keen on a fresh challenge elsewhere to develop his game away from the homeland.
The Gers require reinforcements in the middle of the park with Steven Davis ruled out for the season after rupturing his ACL. John Lundstram and Ryan Jack have restored balance deep down the midfield, but the ‘number 6’ role does not suit Glen Kamara’s game who has struggled to settle in since Gerrard’s exit.
James Sands has been a sporadic option, whereas veteran Scott Arfield is more comfortable as an advanced playmaker. He, as well as Jack, have less than six months left in their Rangers contract, and so is Sands whose loan term will expire in the summer. The gaffer might opt for a reshuffle to build an identity and Raskin, who ticks many boxes and holds a very high ceiling, could become a prized asset if a transfer takes place in the due course of time.
