Aston Villa are intensifying their pursuit of Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin, with Unai Emery’s side preparing an official approach for the 24-year-old Belgian international, TEAMtalk understands.
Rangers have placed a £25m valuation on Raskin, who has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising talents after a stellar season in the Scottish Premiership, contributing five goals and 11 assists. If sold for £25m, Raskin would become Rangers’ most expensive player sale ever.
Villa, grappling with Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) constraints, view Raskin as a cost-effective signing who could bolster their midfield without breaking the bank, with an offer below Rangers’ asking price under consideration.
Raskin’s aggressive yet technically adept style has made him a prime target for Villa, who see him as a long-term asset capable of thriving in the Premier League.
His recent call-up to Belgium’s national team further underscores his quality and potential, and former Rangers boss Philippe Clement has endorsed his readiness for a mid-table English side.
However, Villa face competition, with Leeds United monitoring Raskin, though no formal bid has materialized.
Several Ligue 1 clubs, including Marseille, are also circling, drawn by Raskin’s versatility and contract, which runs until 2027, are giving Rangers strong negotiating leverage.
READ MORE: Marcus Rashford’s dream move in doubt as Man Utd make final decision on star’s return – sources
Aston Villa face competition for Rangers ace
Rangers, now backed by 49ers Enterprises, are open to a club-record sale to fund a squad rebuild under manager Russell Martin, who nonetheless prefers to retain Raskin.
The £25m price tag reflects Rangers’ player-trading model, but Villa’s PSR-driven caution may lead to protracted negotiations, potentially pushing a deal toward the transfer window’s end.
Emery is keen to bring in a new midfielder this summer to strengthen his options, as Amadou Onana continues to be linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.
Leeds, meanwhile, also want to add quality to their midfield as they prepare for life back in the Premier League, in the hopes of avoiding a drop back down to the Championship.
Raskin, while content at Rangers, is open to a move that pushes him toward playing at the highest level and in the English Premier League.
As Villa weigh their approach and Ligue 1 interest grows, Raskin’s future hangs in the balance, his departure would be a huge blow for Rangers but the money gained would be a big help to allow for a bigger squad rebuild.
DON’T MISS: Rangers set to sign 20 G/A winger with Birmingham expected to miss out – sources
Latest Aston Villa news
👉 Man Utd make big Antony sacrifice as star closes in on unusual transfer agreement
👉 Man Utd ‘going after’ the best goalkeeper in the world as contact made
👉 Premier League fixtures: How to get tickets for the biggest matches as games are announced
IN FOCUS: Nico Raskin’s impressive 24/25 season
Nico Raskin 2024-25 league stats: Appearances 33 Goals 4 Assists 10 Passing accuracy 87% Tackles 93 Interceptions 21 Ball recoveries 187 Chances created 40