Rangers are ready to thwart Leeds United’s move for in-form attacker Josh Windass by offering him a new contract, according to the Daily Record.
The newspaper claim the Championship promotion hopefuls are willing to better the £500,000 bid tabled by rivals Preston North End for the 24-year-old Englishman.
The Record quotes a source close to Windass as saying that he hopes to stay at Rangers and play a big role in the club’s future even though the interest from Leeds is “serious” and a “big money offer” could be lodged.
It is said that Windass is “hopeful” of a new Gers deal as director of football Mark Allen plans new contract talks, but these talks may not occur until after the January transfer window closes.
Windass has developed into a key player for manager Graeme Murty after previously struggling to hold down a regular place in the starting XI under former manager Pedro Caixinha.
The former Accrington star has won over previously sceptical fans by scoring six goals and supplying five assists from 24 matches in all competitions this season.
OPINION
Windass has upped his game considerably in the last few months, and won over the fans who had previously been critical of his performances. He has thrived in a more central second striker role, where he looks more comfortable than when he is shoehorned out on the left flank. Rangers should only cash in on the Englishman if he strongly pushes for a return down south and if a bid of £2million-plus is tabled. A new deal would reflect Windass’ importance to the team and demonstrate the club’s faith in a player who can be integral in the coming seasons. However, it appears at this stage that Rangers are hedging their bets and waiting to see how strong the interest is in one of their prize assets before commencing new contract talks.