Ex-Rangers fullback Alan Hutton says his former club are in the perfect position to sign Preston North End midfielder Daniel Johnson.

The 27-year-old has been linked with a £2m switch to Ibrox before the transfer window closes next month, but it is thought that his club could hold out for a higher fee, despite his contract situation. Johnson’s current deal expires next summer and Hutton believes the Gers are ideally placed to land the player:

“While they could pay the money at the moment, if everyone’s willing to wait until January to pick him up on a free, if he actually wants to join your club, you’re holding all the cards so it’s a good situation to be in.”

Manager Steven Gerrard was asked about Johnson before the match against Lincoln Red Imps yesterday, but he refused to be drawn into discussing specific transfer targets.

The Light Blues boss has not hidden his desire to bring in extra bodies before deadline day, and he has expressly mentioned that he wants reinforcements in the middle of the park.

It is believed that Rangers have only made an enquiry about Johnson so far and it remains to be seen whether they will follow up with a formal offer.