Rangers Face January Transfer Test Over Key Midfielder: Should The Club Sell?

Rangers Face January Transfer Test Over Key Midfielder: Should The Club Sell? Rangers have given themselves fresh hope of challenging for the Scottish Premiership title after a six-game winning run under Derek McInnes. Back-to-back Old Firm victories against Celtic have strengthened that push, while the recent 4-0 win over St Johnstone offered further evidence of a side gaining momentum. McInnes has reshaped the squad since taking charge in June, with James Tavernier departing and Lawrence Shankland arriving on a free transfer. The manager now needs his strongest players available throughout a demanding campaign, particularly in central midfield, where energy and defensive discipline help Rangers press aggressively and launch quick attacks. Connor Barron offers tireless running, Mohamed Diomande brings creativity, and Tochi Chukwuani adds physical strength after scoring against St Johnstone. Dujon Sterling provides another option across the middle. Yet Raskin brings a combative spirit that remains difficult to replace, particularly when Rangers need to regain possession quickly and turn defensive recoveries into attacks. The 25-year-old Belgian has started all seven of his Premiership appearances this season, playing 595 minutes and recording one goal, no assists and a 7.25 average match rating. His 40 defensive recoveries and 87.3 per cent passing accuracy prove his value in McInnes’ system, where winning the ball and moving it forward quickly are central to Rangers’ approach. According to Ibrox News, citing Turkish outlet SPORX , Besiktas are preparing to revive their interest ahead of the January 2027 window. Manager Vincenzo Italiano has reportedly requested a new number eight and identified Raskin as a priority after the Istanbul club’s September pursuit failed. The Belgian’s pressing, defensive work and ability to carry play forward could explain that interest. Should Rangers reject Besiktas’ renewed interest in January? DUNDEE, SCOTLAND – OCTOBER 17: Nicolas Raskin of Rangers celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the William Hill Premiership 2026/27 match between Dundee and Glasgow Rangers at Dens Park Stadium on October 17, 2026 in Dundee, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images) Raskin’s contract runs until May 2028, so Rangers face a financial consideration as well as a sporting decision. A January sale could bring in a useful fee before his contract enters its final year, but replacing a proven starter midway through a title challenge would carry its own cost. Besiktas could register him for the Europa League after the January registration window opens, making a winter move more practical than September’s late attempt. However, Rangers should demand a substantial offer before considering any deal. McInnes has built momentum through hard work and midfield intensity, and Raskin supplies both. The financial argument deserves attention because his contract has less than two years remaining, but a sale only makes sense if Rangers can secure a suitable replacement without disrupting their title challenge. Losing a key midfielder in January could cost the club more on the pitch than the transfer fee would deliver in the bank.