Ex-Rangers star Ian Ferguson believes his former club should make an attempt to sign Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour on loan.

The Scotland international is not in Thomas Tuchel’s plans, having not been given a squad number, and Ferguson feels he could revive his fortunes by returning to the club where he started out as a youngster:

“Would the Rangers fans love to see him come back on loan to Rangers? I’m sure they would. I’m quite sure it would be a comfortable place for Billy to come, progress his career and get some game time. He could do well for the national team as well, and who is to say. I haven’t heard anything, but it wouldn’t be a bad option if Rangers were to slot him into the midfield to get him a game.”

Reports suggest that Gilmour may leave Stamford Bridge on a permanent basis this summer. Brighton are said to be considering whether to make a £10m bid, while Everton have also been heavily linked with the player.

If a move still hasn’t been sorted out by deadline day, though, a loan departure will become more likely, and Rangers could well have a chance of securing his signature, especially if they have Champions League football to offer.

As Ferguson points out, Gilmour would gain a lot of experience if he does decide to return to Ibrox but, at this stage, any loan transfer is purely hypothetical.