RSC Anderlecht are closing in on the signing of Norwegian international Thelo Aasgaard from Rangers. The 24-year-old midfielder is expected to move to Brussels in a deal worth around six million pounds. The transfer is anticipated to be completed before Thursday's 5pm deadline.
The club, currently sitting 11th in the Jupiler Pro League with three points from three games, hopes this addition will boost the squad. Anderlecht have scored two goals and conceded five so far this season. Their next test is a home fixture against Genk on September 6th.
Thelo Aasgaard is a creative midfielder who made 48 appearances across all competitions for Rangers last season. He arrived in Scotland last summer under then-manager Russell Martin, following a six-month spell at Luton Town. His final act for the Govan club was an equaliser in the season opener against Dundee United. After that, he dropped to the bench and played one hour in the Conference League defeat to Jablonec.
For Anderlecht, he joins a midfield currently missing the injured Lucas Hey. Aasgaard's arrival provides coach Brian Riemer with new options. Fans can follow the full squad on our squad page.
The past season was a mix of highlights and frustration for the Norwegian. He started the new campaign in Rangers' starting XI under new manager Derek McInnes. His goal in the 1-1 draw with Dundee United seemed a positive sign. However, he then became a substitute and watched the 2-1 defeat to Hibernian from the bench. His final appearance was as an unnamed substitute in the victory at Aberdeen.
This irregular playing time appears a key factor in his departure. Rangers are expected to leave him out of their squad for the upcoming match against Falkirk.
The agreement between Anderlecht and Rangers is valued at approximately six million pounds. This is a significant investment for Les Mauves, who currently trail league leaders Charleroi by nine points. The club expects the transfer to be finalised before the window closes.
Simultaneously, Rangers turned down a loan move from Besiktas for Nico Raskin. Raskin is still expected to be in the squad for the match against Falkirk. The funds generated from the sale of Aasgaard could be important for Rangers.
Anderlecht have started the season in inconsistent form, reflected in a recent run of loss, loss, win. The defence, which has conceded five goals in three matches, requires attention. The addition of a player like Aasgaard is meant to add creativity and drive to the midfield.
The club now prepares for a home match against Genk, who are seventh in the table, on Sunday, September 6th. All upcoming fixtures can be found on our fixtures page. The Genk match is the first after the transfer deadline and a potential debut moment for the new signing.
