Nicolas Raskin turned down a late offer from Besiktas on September 1, while sitting on the Rangers team bus to Falkirk.
He has now confirmed the details himself. The Nicolas Raskin Rangers transfer story reached its peak that evening, with a deal between the two clubs almost agreed before he made his final call.
Raskin chose to focus on that night’s match rather than push through a move to Turkey.
Besiktas Offer Details and Player Statement
Raskin, as featured in the Daily Record, explained how little time he had to weigh up the offer once it landed on deadline day.
He confirmed the two clubs had almost reached an agreement before he chose to stay and play against Falkirk.
“On the morning of September 1, they called me to say there was an offer from Besiktas, that there was interest, and that an agreement was almost reached.
“But I had a match that evening. On the bus to the game, I was still on the phone hesitating, and an hour later I already had to play.
“You don’t have time to hesitate, but I turned it down, switched gears, and played the match.
“Besiktas is also a very good club; they play in the Europa League and are competing for trophies in Turkey.
“But I am also very happy where I am now. We have achieved good results here as well.
“The timing wasn’t perfect but I want to keep doing my best now, and we’ll see what happens in the next transfer windows.
Midfield Competition and Derek McInnes Tactical Setup
Raskin has not had a guaranteed starting spot this month, with a transfer in the background.
He was left out of the squad entirely for the European defeat in the Czech Republic, when Rangers exited the Europa Conference League away to Jablonec.
That was a club decision to protect an asset, rather than a McInnes decision.
Fast forward a few weeks and especially after the performances in the glorious double header against Celtic, Raskin and Dan Neil look inseparable in the middle for the Gers.
Raskin has spoken positively about working under McInnes. He praised the head coach’s attacking style and the way he manages his players.
The Belgian continued:
“In football, you start season after season with a blank slate. You have to give your best in every match to prove yourself.
“And then it is up to the coach to decide in the interest of the team. He has fresh and interesting ideas. He thinks offensively, pressing forward. That is top-notch.
“I had already heard many good things about him. About his man-management and that he is close to the players and gives them a lot of confidence. I see that so far as well. That is good for the group.
Raskin’s decision to stay has also shaped other midfield business at Ibrox. It played a part in the outcome other targets, including Rangers’ pursuit of Lewis Ferguson this year.
Contract Status and Timeline for Upcoming Windows
Raskin still has two years left on his Rangers contract, but the clock is ticking for the club to secure the best return on the player.
No landmark bid arrived in the summer transfer window, despite the expectation that it would, following a solid World Cup display from the midfielder.
The Belgium international has won 19 caps for his country. That tally will continue and if his current club form can replicated through to the end of the year, the rest should take care of itself.
Raskin admitted the Besiktas approach came at a time when he felt ready for a new challenge.
“It is a bit of a disappointment, because I was mentally ready to leave.
“But that is football and it is not a big deal. There are many parameters and off-field matters you have to take into account during a transfer.
“Ultimately, I am not in a position where I necessarily have to leave. Rangers is a good club, I am playing my matches, we have a great squad this year and are doing great things.
“If you ask me if I wanted to take a step forward and keep moving forward, I say yes.
For now, Raskin says his focus stays on Rangers, and he has evidenced that on the pitch in recent weeks.
Any fresh Nicolas Raskin transfer interest will have to wait until January at least.
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