Rangers closing in on Vanja Dragojevic as transfer talks near successful conclusion
Rangers are edging closer to completing the signing of Partizan Belgrade midfielder Vanja Dragojevic, with negotiations now believed to be in their final stages.
The 20-year-old has emerged as one of Derek McInnes' leading midfield targets this summer after an impressive breakthrough campaign in Serbia, and there is growing optimism that an agreement between the two clubs will be reached in the coming days.
Dragojevic made 41 appearances in all competitions last season, scoring four goals while establishing himself as one of Partizan's most influential players. His performances also earned him the captain's armband despite his young age, attracting attention from clubs across Europe.
Rangers appear to have won the race for his signature, with talks progressing rapidly after an opening offer was submitted earlier in the transfer window.
Negotiations progressing towards agreement
Discussions between Rangers and Partizan have intensified in recent days, with both clubs increasingly confident that a deal can be finalised.
An initial bid believed to be worth around £3.8 million fell short of Partizan's valuation, with the Serbian side understood to be seeking a package closer to £4.5 million.
Despite that difference, negotiations have continued positively and a compromise is expected to be reached.
There are also further indications that Partizan are preparing for Dragojevic's departure after removing the midfielder from recent matchday duties, suggesting the club is anticipating a transfer before the new season gets underway.
Should the move be completed, Dragojevic would become another important addition to McInnes' squad as Rangers continue reshaping their midfield ahead of the new campaign.
Rangers continue midfield rebuild
Strengthening the middle of the park remains one of Rangers' key priorities this summer.
The club has already brought in several new faces, including goalkeeper Ivan Pandur, defender Ross McCrorie, midfielder Dan Neil and striker Lawrence Shankland, but recruitment in midfield is expected to continue before the transfer window closes.
Uncertainty surrounding Nicolas Raskin's future has increased speculation that Rangers could add more than one central midfielder before the Premiership season begins.
One player firmly on the club's radar is Norwegian youngster Jens Hjerto-Dahl.
The 20-year-old has enjoyed an outstanding campaign with Tromso, contributing five goals and two assists in just 12 league appearances.
Rangers are understood to have opened discussions with the midfielder's representatives and are exploring the possibility of completing a deal before the start of the Scottish Premiership season.
With talks over Dragojevic nearing a conclusion and interest in Hjerto-Dahl remaining strong, Rangers look set to continue an ambitious summer rebuild as McInnes looks to close the gap on Celtic and build a squad capable of challenging for major honours.