Vanja Dragojevic transfer to Rangers edges closer as hardline Youssef Chermiti exit stance set

Rangers are edging closer to striking a deal for Serbian star Vanja Dragojevic, with the Ibrox club growing increasingly confident of securing the 20-year-old. Record Sport revealed Rangers made a 3.8 million bid for the Partizan Belgrade skipper last week, and the Gers appear well-positioned to add him to their squad as manager McInnes attempts to rebuild for a Premiership title tilt.

However, Rangers are taking a hardline stance on potential outgoings. The club has made clear they do not want to part with Youssef Chermiti in this transfer window, despite interest from French club Lyon. The Portuguese forward, who arrived at Ibrox for 8 million last summer, scored 15 goals in his debut season and McInnes is determined to keep him. It is understood that only a huge bid Rangers couldn't refuse would see the 22-year-old leave at this time.

Dragojevic could potentially replace midfielder Nico Raskin should the Belgian depart. Raskin has attracted attention from Serie A side Atalanta following an impressive World Cup display for his national team. The 25-year-old has two years remaining on his contract but Rangers are prepared to listen to offers this summer following his tournament performances.

McInnes is also continuing to monitor Lewis Ferguson's situation at Bologna as he weighs up a potential big-money move for the Scotland international. Meanwhile, ex-Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil is already through the door as part of Rangers' summer recruitment drive.

The gaffer has already added Lawrence Shankland, Ross McCrorie, Ivor Pandur and Ben Godfrey during pre-season as he looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the new campaign. The potential arrival of Dragojevic would represent another significant addition to the Ibrox ranks as Rangers push to compete for domestic honours.