Rangers are reportedly interested in acquiring Aston Villa right-back Kosta Nedeljkovic, according to Record Sport. The Ibrox outfit is exploring a potential deal for the 20-year-old Serbian international, who joined Villa in 2024 from Partizan Belgrade before a loan spell at RB Leipzig last season.
Nedeljkovic's Career Path
Nedeljkovic moved to the Premier League side for £8 million from Red Star Belgrade, but has found first-team opportunities limited at Villa Park. His loan at RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga last term provided valuable experience, and now Rangers boss Derek McInnes is keen to bring the young defender into his revamped squad.
The Gers are considering a straight cash purchase for Nedeljkovic, though a loan deal with an option to buy remains a viable alternative. McInnes already has Dujon Sterling and Ross McCrorie available in that position, but is nonetheless eager to add the Villa youngster to his ranks to bolster his defensive options.
Rangers' Recent Form and Transfer Activity
Rangers suffered a 2-1 defeat to Hibs in the Scottish Premiership on Sunday, leaving them five points adrift of Old Firm rivals Celtic after just two matches of the new campaign. The result has intensified the need for reinforcements, and McInnes has already brought in nine new faces this summer.
The club is also working to secure a deal for PSV winger Couhaib Driouech, valued at £6 million. Should Rangers manage to thrash out an agreement for Nedeljkovic, the Villa fringe player could become the latest recruit to McInnes' squad.
Impact on Both Clubs
For Aston Villa, offloading Nedeljkovic would free up squad space and potentially generate funds, though the club may prefer a loan to retain his long-term value. For Rangers, securing a young, international-calibre right-back would add depth and competition, aligning with McInnes' strategy of building a squad capable of challenging Celtic for the title.
As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether Rangers can finalise a deal for Nedeljkovic, with fans eagerly awaiting further developments.
