Derek McInnes Opens Door to New Nicolas Raskin Contract at Ranger

Following the squad building that occurred during the summer transfer window, Derek McInnes now seems pretty unconvinced at the fact that he might lose players in January. Unsurprisingly, he has now left the door open to a new Ibrox contract for Nicolas Raskin.

Speaking on Friday, the Scottish manager said that he'd be open to working with the midfielder beyond his current deal. The Belgian's current contract expires on 31 May 2028, leaving less than two years for the parties involved to make a decision. 

Nevertheless, McInnes also said that these discussions will be handled by the club, the player and his agent, as the gaffer didn't offer any comments about any ongoing negotiations or offers that have already been made.

"But we're not looking to lose players in January," McInnes said. Raskin was close to a move during the summer following his involvement in the World Cup, which saw Belgium reach the quarter-finals of the tournament.

However, the Western European side lost to eventual champions Spain, which cut their journey short. The summer move didn't work out, though and now McInnes is keen to maintain the Belgian's presence at Ibrox.

With less than two years left on his contract, the Gers are expected to plan ahead, and many already hope that a decision has been made about a player who is of such great importance to McInnes' plans.

An extension seems like a logical next step, even if they eventually let him go, as it will get them a higher price in the market than Raskin's current precarious contract situation. The Belgian midfielder previously avoided responsibility when asked about the same: "I don't know, it's not up to me. It's up to the club"

The 25-year-old admitted that he was looking for a new challenge after the summer campaign with his national team. However, he maintained that he had never pushed for a move and credited Rangers with helping him reach the biggest stage in the game.

The relationship runs two-way, as displayed by the Belgian today in the 4-0 win against St Johnstone. He regained possession in the move for the opening goal and was involved in the build-up to the second.

It was also the Gers' eighth victory in nine matches across all competitions following a rocky start to the campaign under the new gaffer. At this point, it is safe to say that the money earned by a sale won't outweigh the benefits that Raskin has provided and is capable of providing in the future.