Ex-Leeds striker Noel Whelan says he is not shocked by reports that Rangers fullback Borna Barisic is being scouted by a number of English Premier League teams.

It is believed that Arsenal, Wolves, Aston Villa and Leeds are all keeping tabs on the 28-year-old and Whelan says the defender has all the attributes required to move south of the border:

“There will be loads of teams interested in him I’m sure. It doesn’t surprise me to hear Arsenal and Villa are looking at him. He’s just had a fantastic season, scoring goals, getting assists and keeping clean sheets. He ticks every single box. He gets up, he can defend, he’s a threat and he fits the style of play at Leeds United.”

Rangers supporters will be hoping that Barisic turns down interest from the Premier League if clubs do make offers for the left-back this summer.

Although he will undoubtedly earn more money in England, the four teams interested in him do not have European football next season, unlike Rangers.

Of course, qualification for the Champions League group stages may prove important in terms of finances. It would be easier for Gers to turn down bids for Barisic if they know they have prize money coming in to offset any of the club’s losses due to the impact of the global health crisis.