Rangers Sign Kosta Nedeljkovic on Loan from Aston Villa
Rangers have landed highly rated right-back Kosta Nedeljkovic from Aston Villa on a season-long loan, with a £4m obligation to buy built into the deal.
The 20-year-old moves to Ibrox with that fee set to be triggered depending on how many games he plays, underlining how central Rangers expect him to be in Derek McInnes’ plans this season.
Rangers win race for Serbia prospect
Rangers had to fight for this one. Sky Sports News understands the club saw off rival interest after Nedeljkovic held talks with McInnes and Serbia team-mate Vanja Dragojevic, who joined earlier in the summer. Those conversations proved decisive.
"For me, it was an easy decision after meeting with the coach, I only wanted Rangers," Nedeljkovic said after the deal was confirmed. "I am very excited, Rangers is such a big club, a big family and I am excited to join and help the team have success together.
"It is a big opportunity and a big responsibility. I always try to be positive and work hard so I am ready to help the team."
Nedeljkovic arrived at Villa Park in January 2024 from Red Star Belgrade but made only 10 appearances, having previously spent a season and a half on loan at RB Leipzig. Rangers are betting that regular football in Glasgow will unlock the next stage of his development.
McInnes gets his modern full-back
McInnes made no secret of his satisfaction at getting this deal done.
"Kosta is a talented young player who we are really pleased to bring to the club," the Rangers manager said. "He has already gained some valuable experience at a high level in England and Germany, as well as representing Serbia internationally.
"Kosta is an athletic and energetic full-back who is keen to get forward, but he also has a real desire to defend and compete and he will further strengthen a key area for us. I look forward to welcoming Kosta to Rangers, and working with him moving forward."
An attacking outlet, but with a defender’s edge. Exactly the profile Rangers have been chasing on that flank.
Busy window, more to come
Nedeljkovic becomes Rangers’ 11th signing of a frantic summer, and the recruitment drive is not finished yet. Ibrox chiefs are still in the market for a new striker and a winger before the Scottish window closes on September 3.
Portland Timbers forward Kevin Kelsy and Brighton’s Amario Cozier-Duberry are among the names under consideration as Rangers look to sharpen their options in the final third.
For now, though, the focus falls on the right side of the back line. If Nedeljkovic plays the minutes Rangers clearly expect, that £4m clause will activate – and a season-long audition will turn into a long-term commitment.
