Rangers reject late Nicolas Raskin approach as Besiktas relationship plays a part

Nicolas Raskin will remain a Rangers player following the closure of the Scottish transfer window, despite the midfielder attracting significant late interest from Besiktas.

Scottish clubs had until 5pm on Thursday to complete incoming transfers, although Rangers could still lose players to clubs operating in countries where the transfer window remains open, including Saudi Arabia.

At one point, Raskin’s departure appeared increasingly likely, but Rangers ultimately stood firm. Besiktas made two late attempts to sign the Belgium international, with their second proposal arriving on Wednesday evening before being rejected by Rangers the following day.

Further details from Turkey have now shed light on why the Ibrox club decided against accepting the offer.

Rangers’ stance on Besiktas

Rangers were understood to have received an offer worth around £10.3million for Raskin. The midfielder had recently returned to the first-team picture under Derek McInnes after previously appearing destined to leave during the summer.

However, Turkish journalist Ali Ece claims the decision was influenced by more than the financial package on the table.

According to Ece, Rangers were unhappy with Besiktas following their own failed attempt to sign Vaclav Cerny.

The Scottish club had tried to bring Cerny to Ibrox but saw their approach rejected. Interestingly, Besiktas were reportedly looking for approximately £10.3m for the Czech winger.

Ece claims the Turkish club could have reduced their asking price to around £9.45m, but Rangers were ultimately unable to get the deal over the line.

That history is believed to have contributed to Rangers’ reluctance to negotiate with Besiktas over Raskin when the Turkish side returned with late interest.

Raskin set to stay at Ibrox

For the time being, Raskin is expected to continue his Rangers career after several bids failed to secure his departure.

The Belgium international had reportedly been keen on finding a new challenge this summer, particularly after enhancing his reputation with his performances at the World Cup.

Despite that ambition, the midfielder appears comfortable enough with remaining in Glasgow for now.

Raskin is also Rangers’ longest-serving player, excluding any player who may have received an approach from Saudi Arabia before the window closes there.

His continued presence should provide a boost to McInnes, who has gradually brought the midfielder back into his plans.

While Rangers may have been tempted by the financial reward of selling, keeping Raskin gives McInnes another experienced option as he looks to improve the team’s fortunes.

A transfer could still happen in the future, but for now Raskin’s focus will be on regaining his best form and helping Rangers get their season back on course.