Rangers are holding talks with Preston North End pair Ben Davies and Daniel Johnson, according to reports in the UK.

The two players are allowed to discuss signing pre-contract agreements, with their current deals expiring in June, and it seems the Light Blues have stepped up their attempts to snap up the duo.

Johnson was the subject of a bid from the Gers in the summer but Preston demanded £4m at the time, and the Scottish club decided to step away from the deal.

Davies was valued at an even higher amount. The centre-back was reportedly the subject of a £5m offer from Bournemouth but North End opted to stand firm on their £10m valuation despite the defender’s contract running down.

Rangers could now snap up both players on a free transfer, which would be a tremendous coup for manager Steven Gerrard. Neither deal is guaranteed at this stage, though.

Preston boss Alex Neil has said they are still hopeful that Johnson will sign a new contract, while Davies has interest from a number of different clubs, including Celtic.