Rangers complete loan deal with obligation to buy for promising defender

Rangers have completed the signing of right-back Kosta Nedeljković from Aston Villa.

The Serbian international joins the Ibrox side on loan with a £4m conditional obligation to buy.

At just 20 years old, Nedeljković already has experience in both the Premier League and Bundesliga, but arrives in Glasgow after fighting back from a season of persistent injuries with RB Leipzig.

The Red Star Belgrade academy graduate will now hope to establish himself as Rangers’ first choice right-back following the departure of former club captain James Tavernier.

Nedeljković is the club’s 11th summer signing and will have to integrate quickly. Derek McInnes’s side are still without a win in the SPFL, while they have one last chance to salvage European football in tomorrow’s Conference League play-off with Jablonec.

“After the first meeting with the coach, I took the decision that I only wanted Rangers,” said Nedeljković.

“It is a big opportunity and also a big responsibility. I am obsessed with success and always try to stay positive and work hard. I am ready to help the team and progress together.

“I think the Scottish league is very similar to English football. Physicality is important and also intensity. This is another reason why I have come here. Also, big derbies against Celtic and playing in Europe. I am ready to try and win titles. I have heard amazing things about the atmosphere here.”

Compatriot and fellow summer signing Vanja Dragojević is a familiar face who will help with the young defender’s adaptation.

“We have known each other for ten years. He was in Partizan’s academy and I was in Red Star’s so this is a little bit of a derby, but we are close friends,” added Nedeljković.

The right-back is grateful for his opportunity with Aston Villa, which he believes was crucial for his development despite making just five Premier League appearances.

“At Aston Villa there were a lot of amazing players with amazing personalities and character, so I learned a lot and progressed as a player. I was 18 and a half so it was very important,” said Nedeljković.

“I like to use my speed and be in the final third as a right-back, but also take responsibility and be disciplined in my defensive role.”