Rangers target John Souttar is set to decide his future this week – as his Hearts defensive partner Craig Halkett pens a new deal at Tynecastle.
Scotland international centre-back Souttar, 25, has been the subject of Ibrox interest in the January window and according to Raman Bhardwaj is set to decide on a new contract in the coming days.
The STV journalist believes that John Souttar has whittled his choice down to two English Championship clubs and Rangers with a host of other clubs interested.
It says something for how in-demand the defender is as well as Souttar’s form in Gorgie this season and Rangers will be hoping the lure of trophies, Champions League football, and the prestige of playing at Ibrox sells the ex-Dundee United star on the move.
It’s telling that the English second tier – with it’s high investment and lure of potential promotion to the Premier League – can now theoretically compete with Rangers for a player’s signature.
But if John Souttar has ambitions to play at the highest level, safe enough in the knowledge he could move down south later in his career, then Rangers clearly represents a strong option.
Hearts sign Craig Halkett deal as Rangers target John Souttar
Another indication of Hearts’ position is the signing of Craig Halkett to a new contract, with the claims of Bhardwaj suggesting any hope of a Tynecastle renewal is dead.
Announced via the club’s official website, the 26-year-old ex-Rangers centre-back has signed a new two-and-a-half-year deal in Edinburgh.
Rangers fans will be hoping that this is a sign that John Souttar is edging closer to a move to Ibrox with reports suggesting the defender wants a January move should a Gers deal be concluded.
The fact the Jambos are also reportedly chasing Stuart Findlay could be another indication that John Souttar could be moving out of the club.
Speaking of Rangers transfer interest in centre-backs, an Eredivisie manager has made some ominous comments about another Ibrox-linked defender.
