Nicolas Raskin decision due as Roma now have advantage in bid to sign Rangers star

Roma have emerged as the leading contenders for Rangers star Nicolas Raskin's signature.

The Belgian midfielder is attracting plenty of attention and is widely expected to leave Ibrox.

Derek McInnes confirmed that he would miss the opening game of the Scottish Premiership season, due to his World Cup participation with his country.

He also admitted that he is unsure whether the 25-year-old will be at the club for the new campaign.

Ibrox News has shared the latest developments on Raskin's future with Rangers as they have happened.

Now, there has been another turn with the Italian club seemingly in pole position for his services.

What is the latest on Nicolas Raskin's future at Rangers?

The Gers man has been linked with several clubs this summer, including Premier League duo Hull City and Aston Villa.

A report from Belgian outlet Voetbalkrant claimed Villarreal and the Giallorossi are the main contenders for Raskin, though.

It states that the three-time Italian champions have a "slight edge" in the race.

Raskin's future will likely be decided in the coming weeks as he returns from his post-World Cup holiday.

The potential destination makes sense, as there is already history of players moving from Scotland to Italy.

Why Roma move makes perfect sense for all parties

A move to Italy could prove to be a success for the Light Blues star as he would be following a well-trodden pathway.

Midfielders to succeed in Scottish football and then in Serie A include the likes of Lewis Ferguson and Lennon Miller.

Josh Doig and Kieron Bowie are other notable examples of players to move from the Scottish league and do well in the nation, albeit they are not midfielders.

There is a blueprint for the 19-cap international to take his career to the next level in Rome, so it makes sense that he would be attracted to a move there.

Whether it happens, remains to be seen, but supporters can surely see why he would be interested in making that switch if it is as advanced as the report states.

The Gers would receive a very good fee and the player would have a chance to enhance his reputation and play in the Champions League, so it makes sense for all involved.