Rangers are interested in signing Sunderland striker Mason Cotcher, according to the Sunderland Echo.
The local newspaper claims that the Light Blues have joined English Premier League teams Brighton and Arsenal in pursuing the 17-year-old’s signature.
Cotcher was recently seen playing for the Gunners against Middlesbrough in an Under 18 Premier League Cup match last weekend.
It is believed that the teenager was only on trial with the London side and there is still a chance that other clubs could swoop in and secure his services.
The Sunderland Echo claim that Rangers have “looked at” Cotcher, along with Brighton, although neither team have seemingly firmed up their interest in the player.
What do Gers’ fans need to know about Cotcher?
The forward is an England Under 17 international, but he came to the attention of scouts after Sunderland challenged Manchester City for the Under 18 Premier League title last season.
Cotcher racked up 10 goals in 19 appearances for the Black Cats, who finished four points behind City in the North Division.
Cotcher will be available for a low price
While Sunderland will be owed some compensation for training the striker, the fact that he hasn’t signed on to professional terms with the English Championship side means Rangers won’t have to splash out a transfer fee in order to bring him to Ibrox.
It is believed that negotiations between Cotcher and his club broke down earlier this year so there is a good chance that he will leave the Stadium of the Light over the coming weeks and months.
Whether the Gers can convince the Englishman that making the switch north of the border is best for his development, we shall have to wait and see.