Rangers enforcer David Bates is attracting interest from Sunderland as talks over a new contract at Ibrox continue, according to the Daily Record.
The newspaper claim that the Black Cats are set to make a move for the 21-year-old, whose current deal is up at the end of the season.
The Record report that if Bates were to leave in the summer the Light Blues would only be entitled to a five-figure compensation fee.
It is said that talks are underway between Bates and the club over a new deal, but his failure to sign a contract so far has opened the door to a potential summer switch.
The former Raith Rovers star is reportedly keen to extend his stay at Rangers, who he supported as a boy.
Good move for Rangers?
Absolutely not.
Bates showed his quality in the Old Firm draw in December, coming on as an early substitute for Bruno Alves and bossing the defence for the Light Blues.
He is still just 21 years old, and could develop into a top defender for the club if they take a punt and give him the contract he wants.
This is Futbol rating: 2/10
Likely to happen?
It does seem as though contract talks between Bates and the club have stalled somewhat, as the young enforcer has not yet put pen to paper on a deal.
However, all the signs remain positive, with the club obviously keen to keep him on and Bates himself wanting to stay at Ibrox.
An offer from Sunderland may present Bates with a different option, but it is still more likely that he will stay in Glasgow.
This is Futbol rating: 4/10