Signing Details
Rangers completed a season-long loan of 20-year-old full-back Kosta Nedeljkovic on Wednesday, paying £8 million to Aston Villa. The move, announced in January 2024, saw the Serbian defender transfer from Red Star Belgrade to the club after a stint with Aston Villa and a loan spell at RB Leipzig.
Debut at Ibrox
Nedeljkovic made his Rangers debut as a late substitute, replacing Djeidi Gassama in the final moments of a 1-0 first-leg win over Jablonec in the Conference League playoffs at Ibrox. The appearance came after a period of injury, during which he missed two and a half months with a knee problem.
Filling Tavernier’s Shoes
James Tavernier left Rangers earlier this summer after his contract expired. Nedeljkovic said he does not feel pressure to replicate Tavernier’s style, but he admires the former captain’s attacking mindset. "I want to dominate defensively and also contribute with assists and goals, just like he did in the final third," he explained.
Influences and Connections
The 20-year-old spoke with long-time friend and fellow Serbian Vanja Dragojevic, who joined Rangers from Partizan Belgrade earlier this summer. The two grew up as rivals in the ‘Eternal derby’ in Belgrade, but are now teammates in Scotland.
Nedeljkovic also mentioned a conversation with Scotland international John McGinn, a self-confessed Celtic fan. "It was a difficult question, but we already spoke about Rangers," he said.
Career Path
Before joining Rangers, Nedeljkovic spent six months at Aston Villa, making 10 official appearances, and another six months on loan at RB Leipzig, where he played every game. After a knee injury early in the season, he has now found a club where he can develop further and compete for titles and European football.
Future Prospects
Rangers manager expressed confidence that Nedeljkovic’s attacking, transitional style fits the club’s philosophy. "We will fight for the title and play in Europe," the manager said. "Kosta is a player who can progress here and contribute to our success."
