'Luka Modric talks with Rangers accelerate as deal edges closer'

Rangers have been linked with a shock swoop for Real Madrid legend Luka Modric after he announced he is leaving the club on a free this summer.

The suggestions that the 39-year-old could swap the Bernabeu for Ibrox have come as Rangers continue to eye Davide Ancelotti as their potential next manager.

Football Insider exclusively revealed on 17 May that Rangers have been impressed by Ancelotti's credentials and work on the training ground in Madrid.

Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson told Football Insider that behind-the-scenes talks with the boss are stepping up, with stories planted to gauge fan reactions.

Meanwhile, as Ancelotti's potential appointment edges closer, as does the possibility of signing Modric thanks to his relationship with the boss.

Rangers eye Luka Modric swoop after Davide Ancelotti latest

Football Insider revealed on 28 May that Rangers' next manager will be announced after the takeover by 49ers Enterprises is ratified and confirmed.

In the meantime, ongoing speculation about potential incomings alongside Ancelotti have ramped up, with Modrid suggested either in a playing or coaching role.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, Robinson explained that ongoing speculation surrounding both Ancelotti and Modric are showing that "exciting times" could be on the horizon at Ibrox.

"The links to Luka Modric show what exciting times could be ahead for Rangers," he told Football Insider.

"The longer this [speculation about Ancelotti] goes on for, the more likely it's going to be.

"There's talks going on behind the scenes and they're just trying to get a general consensus from the fans, it's a big decision.

"The links with Luka Modric will get fans excited.

"As a Rangers fans if you're looking on social media and seeing you could get Ancelotti in as a manager and Modric in as a player or coach, you're excited.

"So whether the Rangers board are waiting for reassurance and acceptance from the fans, I don't know."

Nicolas Raskin update emerges amid Premier League interest

Amid optimistic speculation about potential big-name signings at Ibrox, talk has also emerged about the futures of a number of star players.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 27 May that Nicolas Raskin is wanted by Premier League clubs who have been keeping tabs on his progress.

However, it is unclear how advanced their interest is and whether any of the interested parties would be prepared to make a move early in the transfer window.

This comes after Football Insider exclusively revealed in March that Leeds United could sign Raskin with help from 49ers Enterprises after their Ibrox takeover.

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