Former Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday believes Nicolas Raskin has already played his final match for the club, with the Belgian’s impressive performances at the World Cup expected to accelerate a big-money move away from Ibrox this summer.
Raskin has been one of Rangers’ standout players since arriving in Glasgow, but speculation surrounding his future has continued to grow throughout the transfer window. Interest in the midfielder was already building before the World Cup, but his displays on the international stage have only strengthened the belief that a transfer is becoming increasingly likely.
The 25-year-old played a key role in Belgium’s run to the quarter-finals, producing composed performances against some of the world’s best teams and further enhancing his growing reputation across Europe.
With clubs now believed to be closely monitoring his situation, Rangers could soon face a difficult decision if formal offers begin to arrive.
Andy Halliday expects Raskin to leave Rangers
Speaking about the midfielder’s future, Halliday admitted he would be surprised if Raskin remained at Ibrox beyond the current transfer window.
The former Rangers midfielder believes the Belgian was already likely to move on this summer, but feels his performances at the World Cup have opened the door to even bigger opportunities.
Halliday also suggested Raskin deserves to be mentioned alongside some of the most highly-rated midfielders currently playing in Europe, arguing that Rangers should look to maximise any potential transfer fee if serious interest develops.
His comments reflect the growing feeling that Raskin has reached the stage of his career where a move to one of Europe’s top leagues may be the natural next step.
For Rangers, however, there is no immediate pressure to sell.
The midfielder remains under contract, and the club are expected to demand a significant fee before entertaining any offers.
After watching Raskin impress consistently in both domestic and international football, Rangers are in a strong negotiating position should clubs decide to test their resolve.
Premier League clubs expected to show interest
Former Rangers captain Derek Ferguson also believes England is the most likely destination if Raskin does leave Ibrox this summer.
The Premier League has regularly attracted the best talent from Scotland, and Raskin’s performances over the last two seasons suggest he has the quality to make that step.
Hull City have been linked with the Belgian in recent weeks, although they are unlikely to be the only club monitoring his progress.
If larger Premier League sides enter the race, Rangers could find themselves at the centre of a bidding battle that would significantly increase the midfielder’s value.
Interest from clubs in Italy, Spain and Germany has also been reported in previous transfer windows, meaning Rangers could have no shortage of potential buyers should Raskin become available.
His technical ability, composure in possession and relentless work rate make him an attractive option for clubs looking to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new campaign.
Rangers already planning for life after Raskin
While Rangers would prefer to keep one of their most important players, recent transfer activity suggests the club are already preparing for every possible outcome.
Derek McInnes has made midfield one of his top priorities since arriving at Ibrox.
Dan Neil has already joined the club, while Rangers continue to push for the signings of Vanja Dragojevic and Norwegian youngster Jens Hjerto-Dahl.
Those moves indicate McInnes is determined to refresh the middle of the park regardless of whether Raskin stays or leaves.
Adding multiple midfielders would provide Rangers with greater depth while ensuring the squad is prepared should a significant offer arrive for the Belgian before the transfer deadline.
The club’s recruitment strategy has also focused on signing younger players with room for development, allowing Rangers to remain competitive while protecting their long-term financial position.
What would Raskin’s departure mean?
There is little doubt that losing Raskin would represent a major blow on the pitch.
Since arriving at Rangers, the Belgian has developed into one of the team’s most reliable and influential performers, combining defensive intelligence with excellent technical ability and leadership qualities.
His consistency has made him one of the first names on the teamsheet, while his performances in Europe and at international level have demonstrated he is capable of competing against elite opposition.
However, Rangers also recognise the financial reality of modern football.
Selling a player at the right time can provide the funds needed to strengthen several areas of the squad, and McInnes appears to be building a recruitment strategy capable of coping with high-profile departures.
Should Raskin complete a move this summer, he would leave Ibrox having firmly established himself as one of the club’s best midfielders in recent years.
For Rangers, any deal would almost certainly need to represent excellent value before they agree to part with one of their biggest assets, but with interest continuing to grow after an outstanding World Cup, the coming weeks could prove decisive in determining whether the Belgian remains at Ibrox or begins the next chapter of his career elsewhere.