Ferguson’s argument rests on two simple points:
Ferguson reportedly said, “Ele fez uma Copa do Mundo muito boa pela Bélgica,” and that is the kind of exposure that can change how a player is priced. Add in the fact that the midfielder is said to be under contract until 2028, and Rangers do not appear to be under immediate pressure to accept the first serious bid.
The most provocative part of Ferguson’s stance was the comparison with Arne Engels of Celtic. “Nico é melhor que Arne Engels,” Ferguson said, while arguing that if Engels is being discussed at more than £25m, then Raskin should not be available for anything less than around £20m.
That may sound tribal, but it also reflects a wider truth in the Scottish market: if clubs in bigger leagues want polished midfielders with intensity, mobility and personality, they are going to have to pay for them.
Admiration from La Liga is one thing; meeting Rangers’ asking price is another. Villarreal and Betis may like the profile, but Scottish clubs have become more aggressive in protecting value when top performers attract attention.
For now, the story is less about a transfer being close and more about where Rangers draw the line. The next thing to watch is whether interest from Spain turns into a formal offer - and whether Raskin’s price climbs even higher if he stays central to Rangers’ early-season campaign.