Preston North End midfielder Daniel Johnson has attracted interest from Rangers, according to Robert Fairnie of Glasgow Live. The Jamaican is said to be keen on a move north of the border.
The rumours were further strengthened as the 27-year-old was omitted from Alex Neil’s squad on Saturday.
Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has also made it no secret that he is looking to add another midfielder to his squad. After their 4-0 win over Dundee United, Gerrard reaffirmed his desire to bring in one more for the “engine room”.
Rangers Close to Sealing Move for Midfielder Daniel Johnson
Preston to Hold Out for £4 Million for Jamaican
A reported figure of £2 million is said to have been accepted. However, this was denied by Preston. A club statement on the transfer speculation of their players said: “Ordinarily we don’t comment on transfer speculation, however, the last few days have been frustrating as it would appear that a number of clubs are attempting to do their bidding through the press and social media”.
It was unclear if this was specifically regarding Johnson. Left-back Ben Davies is also on the radar of Rangers’ rivals Celtic.
The report, from Tuesday morning, said Preston will not stand in Johnson’s way if he wants to leave. Manager Alex Neil will only accept a “proper bid” of around £4 million.
Johnson is in the last year of his contract and Preston may risk losing him for nothing if a deal cannot be struck.
Rangers lost four players to injury at the weekend, and already have playmaking midfielder Joe Aribo out for up to six weeks. Gerrard’s need for recruitment in that area is vital as Rangers kick off their European campaign this Thursday. It is unlikely that he will wait until next season to enlist the services of Preston’s Player of the Year.
The fan’s favourite boasted 12 goals and six assists last term.
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