McInnes confident Raskin will STAY after surprise Falkirk start

Derek McInnes announced on 3 September 2026 that he fully expects Belgian midfielder Nico Raskin to STAY at Rangers after the World Cup star started unexpectedly in the 2-1 win over Falkirk, following the collapse of a proposed move to Besiktas.

Why Rangers fought for Raskin

Raskin had been linked with a loan to Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas throughout the summer, but McInnes said the midfielder’s experience and daily training at Ibrox convinced him the team needed more seasoned depth in midfield.

“I’ve been keen to utilise Nico, but there’s been a lot going on for him,” McInnes explained, adding that the 25‑year‑old’s World Cup pedigree makes him valuable despite being left out of two recent squads.

The manager praised Raskin’s readiness, noting that the player has “a lot of experience under his belt for someone his age” and that the side “needs that” as the season progresses.

Other transfer activity at Ibrox

While Raskin remains, fellow midfielder Thelo Aasgaard completed an initial loan move to Anderlecht, with the Belgian club paying just short of £1 million and securing an option to buy for around £4 million.

Rangers are also reported to be finalising a deal for Portland Timbers striker Kevin Kelsy, with the fee reported at between 4 million and 9 million, pending the upcoming deadline.

McInnes’ decision to retain Raskin gives Rangers continuity in midfield and denies Besiktas a potential reinforcement, while the Belgian retains a World Cup‑experienced player to aid his development at the club.