Rangers manager Michael Beale has played down reports linking the club with a move for Leicester City’s Harry Souttar.

The defender’s older brother, John, already plays for the Gers and Beale feels it could simply be “lazy” journalism that has led to the Australian international being mentioned as a potential transfer target:

“Harry Souttar – there might be a bit of lazy stuff around that because his brother plays for us and he follows our club. If there is any news on that then you will be the first to know.”

Souttar only made the move from Stoke City to Leicester back in January, with the Foxes paying upwards of £20m for the centre-back, including add-ons.

It had been suggested by TalkSPORT presenter Geoff Peters that the 24-year-old could be available on loan but it appears his information is incorrect.

Souttar may still leave Leicester

The defender has not been part of Foxes manager Enzo Maresca’s plans so far this season. He was an unused substitute in the 2-1 win over Coventry City at the weekend, and the centre-half wasn’t even in the matchday squad for the Carabao Cup tie against Burton Albion.

Even if Rangers aren’t interested in securing Souttar’s services, there seems to be a good chance that he will not be at the King Power Stadium when the transfer window closes.

Rangers could still sign another centre-back

The Gers are currently relying on John Souttar and Connor Goldson at the moment, with the likes of Leon King and Ben Davies out injured.

Leon Balogun is also in the first-team squad, but there has been speculation that Davies could be offloaded before the end of the summer. If that happens, you wouldn’t bet against the club going into the market for another centre-half. From Beale’s remarks, though, it won’t be Harry Souttar.