Rangers manager Derek McInnes has addressed the situation of midfielder Nicolas Raskin amid ongoing transfer speculation. The 25-year-old Belgian has been absent from the last two match-day squads, but McInnes insists no acceptable bids have been made and praised the player's attitude.
What has Derek McInnes said about Nicolas Raskin?
Derek McInnes provided a clear update on Nicolas Raskin's status this week. Speaking to the BBC, the Rangers manager confirmed that while Raskin has missed recent squads, his training performances have been excellent. "Nico's been first-class since he came back from the World Cup - he's been good as gold, he's trained brilliantly," McInnes said. The manager added that no transfer bids have arrived that match Rangers' valuation of the player. Raskin signed a four-and-a-half-year contract when he joined from Standard Liege in January 2023.
McInnes emphasized his desire to work with quality players like Raskin. "I want to work with good players. We just needs to wait and see how things develop," he stated. This comes as Rangers sit fifth in the Premiership with seven points from four games, having scored five goals and conceded four. They trail leaders Celtic by five points in the early title race.
What are Rangers' transfer plans before the deadline?
Rangers are expected to be active in the final days of the transfer window, which closes on Thursday. The club is likely to make one more signing to bolster the squad. According to reports, 22-year-old Venezuelan forward Kevin Kelsy from Portland Timbers is close to completing a move to Ibrox. This potential signing follows a busy summer that has already seen twelve new arrivals and the appointment of McInnes from Heart of Midlothian.
The injury to striker Youssef Chermiti last month has increased the need for attacking reinforcements. Chermiti joins José Cifuentes and Tuur Rommens on the current injury list, which you can monitor on our injuries page. The club's exit door is also expected to be busy, with several players linked with moves away before the deadline.
Which Rangers players could leave this week?
Several Rangers players face uncertain futures as the transfer window enters its final phase. Winger Ross McCausland, striker Bojan Miovski, and defenders John Souttar and Clinton Nsiala have all been mentioned in connection with potential departures. Midfielder Lyall Cameron has already secured a loan move to Dundee United.
This potential squad reshuffle comes as Rangers prepare for their next fixture against Heart of Midlothian at home on December 19th. Hearts currently sit sixth in the table, one place behind Rangers. You can view the full schedule on our fixtures page. The club's current league position and recent form of two wins, one draw, and one loss adds urgency to getting the squad balance right.
How does this affect Rangers' season outlook?
The handling of the Raskin situation and the final transfer business will directly impact Rangers' campaign. With the team five points off the pace early in the Premiership season, every decision carries weight. McInnes will want his squad settled before the winter period, especially with key players like Chermiti facing long-term absences.
The manager's public backing of Raskin suggests he remains part of the plans unless a suitable offer arrives. Rangers' activity in the market reflects their ambition to close the gap at the top of the table. Fans can track the team's progress and statistics on our stats and standings pages throughout the season. The next home match against Hearts on December 19th provides an immediate opportunity to build momentum.
