Real Betis have become the latest European club to be credited with an interest in Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin, adding further intrigue to what is shaping up to be one of the summer's biggest transfer sagas at Ibrox.
The Belgium international has enjoyed a remarkable rise over the past 12 months, establishing himself as one of his national team’s regulars while being a mainstay in the Rangers starting XI.
His reputation has only grown during the World Cup, where Raskin has impressed on the biggest stage and helped Belgium reach the knockout rounds.
According to reports from Sky Sports Luca Bendoni, Real Betis have now entered the race for the 25-year-old, joining a growing list of admirers from across Europe.
The latest development comes shortly after reports from Italy suggested Serie A side Atalanta had made contact over a potential move, although Rangers are believed to be holding out for a fee in the region of €25 million.
Rangers in strong negotiating position
Rangers are under little pressure to sell one of their prized assets with two years remaining on his deal. Although they would like to sell this summer due to that length of contract, but only if their valuation is met.
The Ibrox club are therefore expected to resist offers below their valuation, particularly given the midfielder's stock is continuing to rise during the World Cup as Belgium prepare for a last 16 clash with hosts USA.
Should Belgium progress deeper into the tournament, Raskin's value could increase further before the transfer window reaches its conclusion.
European interest continues to grow
Real Betis' emergence adds another high-profile name to the list of clubs monitoring Raskin's situation.
The Spanish side are renowned for recruiting technically gifted midfielders, while Atalanta's long-standing reputation for developing players into elite performers makes both clubs attractive destinations.
However, Rangers remain in a strong position and are unlikely to entertain offers that fall short of their asking price.
With Belgium still chasing World Cup glory, Raskin's immediate focus remains on international duty.
The midfielder has stated he will not discuss his future until after its completion.
“I’m not thinking about that right now. I’m not occupied with that at the moment,” he said on the tournament.
“I leave that to those who represent me in Belgium and I’m focused on what’s happening here.
“I am not concerned with a possible transfer, nor with the amount of a future transfer fee. I leave all that to my agents.
Once that campaign comes to an end, attention is likely to turn quickly towards his club future, with Rangers facing increasing interest in one of their most valuable players.
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