Rangers push for Serbian midfield ace Vanja Dragojević with €4.5m bid

Rangers have tabled a €4.5m bid for Partizan Belgrade midfielder Vanja Dragojević, according to a recent report. The 20-year-old Serbia international has emerged as a key target as the Light Blues seek to bolster their midfield under new manager Derek McInnes.

Dragojević’s stock has risen sharply this season after becoming a regular starter for Partizan. He made 41 appearances in 2025-26, contributing four goals and four assists across competitions. His performances have earned him the vice-captaincy at Partizan, where he has established himself as a deep-lying playmaker.

The move comes amid a broader midfield overhaul at Rangers. Dan Neil was signed on a Bosman last summer, but the club has continued to seek additional reinforcements in the centre of the park. Joe Rothwell and Lyall Cameron were brought in under previous regimes but neither secured a consistent starting berth, with Rothwell departing in January and Cameron loaned to Aberdeen.

McInnes has made it clear he wants a physically imposing and technically strong midfielder to fit his preferred 4-4-2 system. Dragojević’s reputation for aggressive tackling and dominance in duels aligns with the manager’s demands. The Serbian’s ability to operate as a ‘number six’ would provide competition for minutes in a league known for its intensity.

Partizan, however, are not ready to let Dragojević leave without a fight. The Belgrade club is holding out for a €5.5m fee, along with a sell-on clause. Rangers’ €4.5m offer falls short of that valuation, setting up a potential stalemate in negotiations.

Dragojević’s development has been closely watched internationally. He earned his first cap for Serbia last year and featured in a recent friendly against Mexico in June 2026. His progress has drawn comparisons to other young midfielders making waves in European football.

The Light Blues’ interest in Dragojević is part of a wider strategy to rebuild their squad under McInnes. While Lewis Ferguson remains a target, the club is pursuing multiple avenues to strengthen the team ahead of the new season. The outcome of the Dragojević deal could influence further recruitment decisions.

Rangers’ pursuit of Dragojević also reflects their need to address uncertainty surrounding Nicolas Raskin’s future. The Belgian midfielder has been linked with moves away, leaving a potential void in the team’s midfield structure. Dragojević’s arrival would provide depth and competition for existing players.

The Serbian’s physical profile and technical attributes make him an ideal fit for the Scottish Premiership. His ability to break up play and progress the ball could offer Rangers a new dimension in midfield battles. The club will need to decide whether to increase their bid or explore alternative options if Partizan remains firm on their valuation.