'The interest is good': Midfielder flattered by Rangers interest but rules out January Ibrox switch
01/10/2025 11:00 AM
With the ink drying on a new contract, Rangers can strike a line through one of their reported January transfer targets.
And while he is fully aware of the reports linking him with a winter switch to Ibrox, the 23-year-old midfiedler is clearly no rush to leave his boyhood club.
Leon Belcar is not only an NK Varazdin player, but also someone who grew up a stone’s throw from their stadium, rising through the ranks before becoming a regular in the centre of the park. Belcar, it’s fair to say, is living the dream.
And while Rangers are keen on the Croatia Under 21 international – offering Belcar the chance to showcase his talents on a bigger stage – he is clearly in no rush to leave his beloved outfit.
The Rangers-linked Belcar signed a new deal at Varazdin this week, extending his contract until the summer of 2027.
And, explaining his decision to stay put for the foreseeable future, a man with three goals from 17 games in Croatia’s top flight this season admits that it will take something special for him to turn his back on the club he calls home.
Leon Belcar opens up on Rangers links as he signs Varazdin contract
“[Signing a new contract] was the first plan,” Belcar explains, speaking to Varazdin’s official website. “Although the media reports about the interest of big European clubs are good, I’m in no hurry.
“I’m satisfied and happy in Varazdin. This is where I’m at home, this is where my heart is and we’re moving on to new victories.
“It’s definitely a nice feeling to be in your city, your club and among your people. I got my chance and I used it in the best way, so I’m glad that the fans see that and that they love and appreciate me.
“The best moment in the Varazdin jersey was my first goal against Hajduk because that’s when I started getting more serious minutes. At that time, it was quite difficult for me because I didn’t know if I would succeed in football, so that goal definitely marked that period for me.”
Leon Belcar idolises Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane, priding himself upon his ability to dictate proceedings and make things happen with the ball at his feet.
Yet, without a single assist to go with his three goals this term, Belcar certainly feels that he has much to improve when it comes to his end product.
Belcar still a work in progress as Rangers eye fellow Croatian Marko Soldo
“Personally, I feel fantastic,” he adds. “I think that this team can do even more and better than before. The second part of the season will be more demanding, but we are ready for anything.
“Considering that we have already shown that we can compete against everyone, I think we have something to hope for. My personal goal by the end of the season is even more goals and assists, and the team’s goal is to try to win a place in the standings that leads to the fight for Europe.”
Belcar is not the only Croatian-based talent reportedly on the radar of Philippe Clement’s Glasgow giants.
Rangers News have been told that Rangers are keen on NK Osijek’s Marko Soldo too, amid claims that £2.5 million could be enough to lure the 21-year-old to Scotland.
