Every word Nicolas Raskin's said about proposed Rangers exit amid 'disappointment'

Nicolas Raskin has revealed that he was "mentally ready" to leave Rangers in the summer.

The Belgian midfielder attracted significant interest from the likes of Hull City, Real Betis, Bologna and Atalanta.

Many observers believed the Bears could bank a figure between £15-20million for the 25-year-old's services.

However, he remained at Ibrox as the only serious approach was from Turkish side Besiktas.

That was rejected by the Gers and he stayed with Derek McInnes' side after the window closed.

Raskin has now spoken about the saga, and shared his thoughts on not getting the big move that was expected.

What did Nicolas Raskin say about his proposed Rangers exit?

The hype around Raskin only increased following his World Cup performances with his country.

However, the move that he was supposed to yet afterwards did not materialise.

Raskin has now opened up about the proposed exit in an interview with media in his homeland while on international duty.

The Light Blues star said: “It is a bit of a disappointment, because I was mentally ready to leave.

“But that is football and it is not a big deal. There are many parameters and off-field matters you have to take into account during a transfer.

“Ultimately, I am not in a position where I necessarily have to leave. Rangers is a good club. I am playing my matches, we have a great squad this year and are doing great things. If you ask me if I wanted to take a step forward and keep moving forward, I say yes.

“A transfer window like that isn’t easy for anyone. Not for the players, but not for their families either. There is a lot of uncertainty. You’re basically just waiting for your phone to ring.

“On the morning of September 2, they called me to say that there was an offer and even almost an agreement, but I had a match that evening. On the bus to the stadium, I still didn’t know if I would stay at Rangers. An hour later, I was on the pitch. There wasn’t much time to think.

“From now on, the focus is back on myself and on performing as well as possible, so that the next transfer window goes better. I am not someone who gives up easily anyway. Life goes on. There are worse things.”

Those words suggest that he is still eying a exit eventually, but is willing to remain with McInnes' side for the short-term future.

Rangers have simple Raskin decision in January

Rangers need to keep Raskin at least to the end of the campaign, as he has shown his class in recent weeks after being re-integrated into the side.

He was immense in the 1-0 win over Celtic last time out, and he could be the difference maker if the Bears are going to taste Scottish Premiership glory.

They must refuse any interest that is reignited in January, even if the player reaffirms his desire to depart to greater things, and offers start to flood in.

The hierarchy at Auchenhowie must persuade him to stick around until the season ends, as the money that they could pull in would not be worth if, if they failed to win the title as a result.

They could reach a verbal agreement with the player that he will be allowed to leave next summer, and that would likely satisfy all parties.

Raskin gets his wish to move on, and the G51 side get a healthy profit and potentially come away with a trophy or two when all is said and done.