Rangers and Celtic are going head-to-head in the hunt to sign Portsmouth centre-back Jack Whatmough, according to the Sun.
The newspaper claims that Aberdeen are also interested in the 22-year-old defender, who could be available for a deal worth next to nothing in the summer when his contract at Fratton Park expires.
It is understood that if Whatmough makes the move across the border to Scotland, a compensation fee will be much cheaper than what another English club would have to pay for the former England Under-21 international.
Rangers and Celtic are said to be leading the race for Whatmough’s signature at this stage.
Good move for Rangers?
Whatmough has played a key role in helping Portsmouth reach the top of League One this season.
He has made 25 appearances in all competitions and impressed at the weekend when he helped Pompey earn a shock 1-0 win away against Norwich in the FA Cup.
Steven Gerrard could definitely do with some fresh legs in the defence, but surely he should be aiming a bit higher than someone who is currently playing in League One.
Whatmough may be a good back-up option for Rangers, but he won’t be taking a starting spot off of any of the Gers’ current centre-backs should he join the club this month.
This is Futbol rating 5/10
Likely to happen?
Portsmouth do look as though they might be losing Whatmough at the end of this season, but that could change if the south coast club wins promotion to the English Championship.
Rangers and Celtic could make an approach for the 22-year-old right now with him available on a pre-contract basis, but do not rule out the chances of Pompey getting him signed to a new deal if they go up this term.
This is Futbol rating 5/10