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Rangers and Celtic Lock Horns Over Serbian Teen Star as European Giants Circle – Transfer Showdown Could Spark Glasgow Power Shift
Rangers and Celtic are gearing up for a fierce transfer tug-of-war as both clubs chase Serbian wonderkid Andrej Bacanin, sources have revealed to *Football Insider*.
The highly-rated 18-year-old midfielder is poised to leave FK Čukarički this summer, with interest pouring in from across Europe. However, it’s the two Glasgow giants who currently lead the charge for his signature—though they’ll face stiff competition from continental clubs such as Ajax and Udinese, both of whom are monitoring the situation closely.
Sources suggest that both Rangers and Celtic are well-placed to strike a deal, but the deciding factor could come down to who is willing to go further in the expected bidding war.
**Rangers Hope to Land Statement Signing Under New Ownership**
Rangers, under new ownership by 49ers Enterprises since late May, are eager to make a splash in the market. Newly appointed manager Russell Martin has been tasked with narrowing the 17-point gap that separated the Ibrox side from Celtic last season, and Bacanin is seen as a potential long-term midfield star who could help shift the balance of power.
Landing Bacanin ahead of Celtic would not only deliver a blow to their fiercest rivals but could also signal the start of a new, more competitive era for the Gers. Sources close to the club say this transfer battle could be the first major off-field win for Martin and the new board as they look to reassert themselves in Scottish football.
**Celtic Looking to Maintain Dominance**
Meanwhile, Celtic—fresh off securing their fourth consecutive Premiership title—are determined to continue strengthening their squad with young talent and won’t back down without a fight. The Hoops have a proven track record of developing prospects, and Bacanin would be another exciting addition to their long-term vision.
**Elsewhere in the Market**
While Rangers pursue Bacanin, they could lose ground elsewhere. Reports suggest they are at risk of missing out on Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, with Southampton believed to be leading that race. Former Manchester United and Blackburn scout Mick Brown claims Southampton are prepared to open talks and offer Rak-Sakyi a fresh start in the Championship—dealing another potential blow to Rangers’ recruitment plans.
As the Bacanin saga unfolds, all eyes are on Glasgow. This transfer battle could have major implications not just for the player’s future—but for the balance of power in Scottish football heading into the 2025/26 season.
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