Ex-Rangers midfielder Alex Rae has tipped his former club to make a move for Hearts left-back Aaron Hickey when the transfer window re-opens.

The 17-year-old came through Celtic’s academy before moving to Tynecastle, but Rae believes the defender should be on the Light Blues’ radar ahead of next season:

“I’d say the lad Aaron Hickey at Hearts has a bright future. He looks to bomb forward when possible and does well defensively and the early signs are he will kick on.”

It is an interesting shout from Rae. Manager Steven Gerrard could be left with few options at left-back if Jon Flanagan and Andy Halliday both leave at the end of their contracts this summer.

With Borna Barisic’s future also in doubt, bringing in a young talent like Hickey to increase competition for places may well be an option.

Hearts will need the cash, but there is competition for Hickey’s signature. The likes of Crystal Palace, Manchester City, Everton, Southampton and even his former team Celtic are said to be keen on the player.

Rangers would, however, be his best bet if he wants to play first-team football next campaign.