Stoke City have beaten Rangers to the signing of Wigan midfielder Nick Powell, according to reports in England.

The 25-year-old, who has also been linked with Celtic, is available on a free transfer this summer after deciding to run down his contract at the Latics.

Gers boss Steven Gerrard was said to be hopeful of persuading Powell to move to Ibrox but it appears the former Manchester United player has opted to remain in the English Championship.

The midfielder scored eight goals and provided seven assists in 32 appearances for Wigan this season, despite playing in the team struggling at the wrong end of the table.

It’s likely that Stoke were prepared to pay Powell more in terms of wages, and that ultimately put paid to Rangers’ plans of clinching a deal for the attacking midfield player.

The Scottish club have already made three signings this summer and could make it four with Birmingham City’s Greg Stewart poised to sign on the dotted line.