Derek McInnes eyes longer stay for World Cup star Nico Raskin

Rangers have been forced to plug a midfield void after Belgian international Nico Raskin impressed at the World Cup Finals and was widely tipped to leave Ibrox in the summer. Derek McInnes, keen to retain the World Cup star, sees him as essential to sustain the club’s recent run.

Speculation and missed transfer window

In October 2026 the manager admitted he was among those expecting Raskin to be sold, a view that frustrated him as the midfielder missed several early‑season fixtures while rumours swirled. After the summer window closed without a suitable offer for the 25‑year‑old, the club were left with no alternative but to keep him.

Since the deadline Raskin has become a mainstay, featuring in every game he is available for. Rangers have responded, winning seven and drawing one of their last eight domestic matches, a run McInnes attributes largely to the midfielder’s experience despite his relative youth. McInnes said the early‑season speculation forced him to omit Raskin from the squad on several occasions, a situation he described as frustrating.

Contract outlook and club ambition

Raskin’s current contract runs until the summer of 2028, and chairman Andrew Cavenagh has made clear there is no intention to sell any prized assets in the January window. Cavenagh stressed the club’s policy of protecting its prize assets during the winter market. McInnes says he would welcome an extended deal, noting that January is never an ideal time to lose key players.

‘I normally leave those sort of contract discussions between the club and the player and the agent,’ McInnes explained, adding, ‘If there was an opportunity to work with Nico beyond that, I would not be against it.’ He praised Raskin’s contribution, saying the midfielder has featured in every match he’s been fit for.

Raskin admitted he could have entertained ‘one or two things’ during the window, but affirmed his desire to stay at Ibrox, stating, ‘I’m keen to be here and be part of a successful team.’ He added that unless something dramatically changes, he will continue focusing on training and performance.

After last Saturday’s 2‑2 draw at Dundee, Rangers will look to resume winning ways at home against St Johnstone. McInnes reiterated that any unexpected offer could still alter plans, but for now the focus remains on keeping Raskin fit and driving the side towards a successful season.