Rangers manager Steven Gerrard made Leon King part of the squad against Stranraer last night in an attempt to persuade the 16-year-old into staying, according to the Football Insider.

Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham, Newcastle, Leicester and Arsenal are all said to be keeping close tabs on the defender.

King is reportedly uncertain that there is a pathway open to him for first-team football at Ibrox and Gerrard’s gesture last night was to demonstrate to the teenager that he is in his plans. The centre-half was not on the substitutes’ bench but was included as the 19th man for the cup clash.

The defender’s agent is currently locked in contract discussions with the Light Blues but if a breakthrough can’t be found, he could move to an English club for a nominal fee.

Whether Gerrard’s attempt will be enough to convince the youngster into staying at the club, we shall have to wait and see.