Bologna has submitted a €20 million offer for Lewis Ferguson, a Rangers player: What steps should Ibrox take?

Bologna Plot Summer Move for Nicolas Raskin

Rangers could soon face one of their biggest transfer decisions of the summer as Bologna reportedly prepare an ambitious approach for Nicolas Raskin.

According to reports emerging from Italy, via Football Italia on X, the Serie A outfit are interested in signing the Belgian midfielder and are willing to value him at around €20 million. However, the proposal is believed to include an intriguing twist that could completely reshape the negotiations.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MARCH 01: Nicolas Raskin of Rangers warms up prior to the William Hill Premiership match between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox Stadium on March 01, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Rather than simply submitting a cash offer, Bologna are reportedly open to including Scotland international Lewis Ferguson as part of the package, creating the possibility of a high-profile midfield swap.

Such a proposal would undoubtedly divide opinion among Rangers supporters, but it also presents the Ibrox hierarchy with a fascinating opportunity.

A Deal That Could Benefit Both Clubs

Raskin has developed into one of Rangers’ most dependable performers over the last campaign.

Throughout the demanding 2025/26 season, the Belgian midfielder was a constant presence in the side, making 50 appearances across all competitions while contributing six goals and seven assists.

Beyond the statistics, his influence in the middle of the park became increasingly important as Rangers navigated a challenging domestic and European schedule.

His consistency has not gone unnoticed.

The 24-year-old has firmly established himself within Belgium’s senior national team and is currently representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Having started Belgium’s recent Group G matches against Egypt and Iran, Raskin has been given the perfect platform to showcase his qualities to clubs across Europe.

His impressive displays on the international stage have only strengthened Bologna’s reported interest.

Rangers Have a Huge Decision to Make

Receiving offers of around €20 million for a player is never something Rangers can ignore.

For a club operating with financial discipline, such a valuation represents a significant opportunity to strengthen multiple areas of the squad.

Although Raskin has become a fan favourite through his tireless displays and technical quality, there is a genuine argument that this could be the ideal moment to maximise his market value.

If Bologna are prepared to include Ferguson in the deal, Rangers would not simply be replacing one midfielder with another.

Instead, they would be acquiring a player with an entirely different skill set that could suit Scottish football exceptionally well.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MARCH 21: Nicolas Raskin of Rangers is seen warming up during the William Hill Premiership match between Rangers and Aberdeen at Ibrox Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Why Lewis Ferguson Makes Sense

Ferguson requires little introduction north of the border.

His previous performances in the Scottish Premiership demonstrated exactly why he earned a move to Serie A, where he has continued to develop into an accomplished midfielder.

Unlike many foreign arrivals who need time to adapt, Ferguson already understands the physical and tactical demands of Scottish football.

That familiarity significantly reduces the risk attached to any transfer.

More importantly, Ferguson consistently provides an attacking threat from midfield.

His ability to arrive late inside the penalty area, score important goals and contribute in decisive moments is something Rangers have occasionally lacked.

Against teams that defend deep and make life difficult domestically, those qualities become invaluable.

Whether playing at Ibrox, Hampden or difficult away grounds like Pittodrie, Ferguson has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to make the difference.

Solving More Than One Problem

Should Rangers seriously consider the proposed swap, they would effectively solve two major issues at once.

Firstly, they would receive excellent value for one of their most sought-after assets while his stock is exceptionally high.

Secondly, they would replace him with an experienced midfielder who has already proven he can thrive in Scotland.

That removes much of the uncertainty usually associated with summer recruitment.

Instead of investing considerable time and money scouting an alternative from overseas, Rangers would be bringing in a player whose qualities are already well established.

For a club aiming to challenge immediately for domestic honours, that certainty carries enormous value.

Smart Financial Business

Financially, the proposal also carries significant appeal.

Selling Raskin for a valuation close to €20 million while receiving Ferguson as part of the agreement would represent excellent business.

Rather than spending a substantial portion of the transfer budget on finding another central midfielder, Rangers could redirect those resources toward strengthening other key positions.

Additional investment could then be made in areas where the squad requires further improvement, allowing the recruitment department greater flexibility throughout the remainder of the transfer window.

For a club working within financial constraints, maximising every opportunity is essential.

Deals involving player exchanges of this calibre are relatively uncommon, making this one particularly attractive.

Timing Could Be Everything

One factor Rangers cannot ignore is timing.

Raskin’s profile continues to rise with every appearance at the World Cup.

Strong performances on football’s biggest international stage naturally attract greater attention from clubs across Europe.

While that could potentially increase his market value even further, it also introduces greater uncertainty.

Other clubs may enter the race, while Bologna could reassess their plans depending on how the tournament unfolds.

Waiting too long always carries risks during the transfer window.

If Ferguson is genuinely available as part of the negotiations, Rangers may have only a limited period to capitalise on the opportunity.

Acting decisively could ultimately prove crucial.

Ferguson Offers Proven Quality

There is often temptation to retain players whose value continues to rise, but football decisions cannot be based solely on future potential.

Ferguson has already demonstrated exactly what he can deliver.

His leadership, physicality, intelligence and eye for goal have been evident throughout his career in Scotland and Italy.

Those characteristics would strengthen Rangers immediately.

He also possesses the mentality required to handle the expectations that come with representing one of Scotland’s biggest clubs.

The pressure of competing for trophies every season is something Ferguson understands well.

That experience could prove invaluable in a squad looking to regain domestic supremacy.

Why Rangers Should Consider the Deal

From Rangers’ perspective, this proposal makes considerable sense.

Although losing a player of Raskin’s quality would undoubtedly disappoint supporters, every club must recognise the right moment to cash in.

A €20 million valuation represents outstanding business, particularly when accompanied by a player of Ferguson’s calibre.

Rather than weakening the squad, the exchange could arguably improve its overall balance.

Ferguson’s attacking output, combined with his familiarity with Scottish football, would offer Rangers an immediate solution in midfield without requiring a lengthy adjustment period.

Meanwhile, the funds saved through the swap would allow the club to reinforce several other positions before the new season begins.

Final Verdict

Football moves quickly, and transfer opportunities rarely remain available for long.

Raskin’s outstanding World Cup performances have ensured his reputation is growing rapidly, but that also means his future is becoming increasingly uncertain.

If Bologna are genuinely prepared to meet Rangers’ valuation while including Lewis Ferguson in the package, the Ibrox club should give the proposal serious consideration.

The Belgian midfielder has been an outstanding servant, but Ferguson represents proven quality, domestic experience and immediate impact.

Combined with the financial flexibility created by such a deal, it could prove to be one of the smartest pieces of business Rangers complete this summer.

Should the opportunity present itself, the Ibrox board would be wise to move quickly before circumstances change and the chance disappears.