Rangers have secured the signing of 20-year-old Serbian midfielder Vanja Dragojevic from Partizan Belgrade for an undisclosed fee, with the player agreeing to a four-year deal at the Scottish Premiership club — plus an option for a fifth year.

Dragojevic captained Partizan last season, making 41 appearances, scoring four goals, and contributing four assists while operating primarily as a defensive midfielder. Partizan finished third in the Serbian SuperLiga.

A captain at 20

Manager Derek McInnes expressed genuine enthusiasm about the arrival. "We are really excited to bring Vanja on board," he said. "He's got huge potential, really exciting attributes, and boasts the character to play in this environment."

McInnes added: "To captain a club the size of FK Partizan at such a young age tells you everything you need to know about the respect he commands and the leadership qualities he already possesses. I believe he will add a lot to our group, and I look forward to working with him in the years ahead."

A rapid rise through the ranks

Dragojevic progressed through Partizan's youth academy before signing his first professional contract in September 2023. He was initially sent on loan to third-tier Teleoptik, but within four months had signed a new deal running until 2030 — reportedly carrying a release clause of £12.75 million — and made his first-team debut in March last year.

He quickly established himself as a regular starter before being handed the captain's armband in his first full season, featuring in all 41 of those appearances.

European experience and international debut

Dragojevic also featured in both legs of Partizan's UEFA Conference League third qualifying round exit against Hibernian. Partizan won 3-2 at Easter Road — despite finishing with 10 men — but were knocked out 4-3 on aggregate after extra time.

The midfielder made his international debut for Serbia as a second-half substitute in a 3-0 friendly defeat to Cape Verde in May, a match Cape Verde used as preparation for the World Cup. He then started in a 5-1 loss to tournament co-hosts Mexico.