Atalanta have identified Rangers midfielder Nico Raskin as a potential summer target as they prepare to reinvest midfield funds, while Wolfsburg’s willingness to sell Andreas Skov Olsen and Bailey Rice’s expected contract renewal give Rangers practical transfer options and squad stability under incoming boss Derek McInnes.
Nico Raskin emerges as Atalanta transfer target
Italian interest has surfaced in Rangers midfielder Nico Raskin, with Atalanta reportedly eyeing the Belgian as they rebuild their midfield ahead of the Serie A season. Raskin, who featured off the bench for Belgium at the World Cup, still has two years left on his Ibrox deal, placing Rangers in a strong negotiating position.
Why Atalanta want Raskin
Atalanta are expected to reinvest significant funds in midfield after a high‑profile exit. With a reported move for Ederson to Manchester United creating an immediate vacuum, Maurizio Sarri appears to be targeting a combative, box‑to‑box profile — one Raskin fits. His blend of energy, ball progression and familiarity with central European football makes him an attractive, cost‑effective option.
What this means for Rangers
A sale would allow Rangers to maximise value while funding squad upgrades under Derek McInnes. Raskin’s contract length gives the club leverage; Rangers can demand a fee that reflects his age and international exposure rather than rushing a below‑market deal. For McInnes, any incoming cash would be a practical boost as he reshapes the squad.
Skov Olsen: cheap option for Ibrox?
Wolfsburg are reportedly prepared to cut Andreas Skov Olsen loose at a reduced fee after his loan spell at Rangers. Rangers declined an £8m buy option following a modest return of one goal in 11 appearances, but a lower price could prompt reconsideration.
How a return would fit
Skov Olsen offers directness and width, attributes McInnes historically values. A bargain signing would be low risk: if regained form, he provides an immediate wing option; if not, the financial outlay would be minimal. The club must weigh short‑term needs against long‑term squad balance.
Bailey Rice set to commit to Rangers
Young midfielder Bailey Rice looks poised to sign fresh terms with Rangers after an injury‑blighted season limited him to a single appearance. At 19, securing his contract is a clear message that the club remains committed to developing academy talent even amid managerial change.
Why re-signing Rice matters
Retaining Rice protects Rangers’ homegrown pipeline and gives McInnes a young, controllable asset to integrate gradually. It also avoids losing a player for little or no fee; even if Rice isn’t first‑team ready, he represents potential sell‑on value and squad depth.
Implications for the summer window
Rangers enter the transfer window with clear decision points: assess genuine offers for Raskin, consider cost‑effective returns like Skov Olsen, and prioritise retention of promising youngsters such as Rice. McInnes inherits a club that can be pragmatic — selling to strengthen while keeping developmental continuity.
What to watch next
Key indicators will be whether Atalanta table a formal bid, Wolfsburg actually lowers their price for Skov Olsen, and how quickly Rangers conclude Rice’s new deal.
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Each outcome will shape McInnes’s early recruitment strategy and determine how competitive Rangers can be next season.
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