Liverpool may decide to loan out Rangers target Owen Beck to a club in England before the January transfer window closes, according to Football Scotland.

Sources have told the website that the Reds could “require” the left-back to continue his development south of the border rather than returning to the Scottish Premiership for the second half of the season.

Beck impressed whilst playing for Dundee on loan but he was recalled by his parent club at the start of the month to provide cover for the injured Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas.

Both the Light Blues and Old Firm rivals Celtic were hoping to snap up the 21-year-old on a temporary basis but that will only be possible if Liverpool deem him surplus to requirements.

Why are Rangers pursuing the fullback?

Ridvan Yilmaz’s future at Ibrox remains uncertain. It has been reported that the defender is keen on returning to Turkey, and Galatasaray are believed to be in negotiations to secure his services on loan.

However, Rangers are said to be very reluctant for the player to leave unless there is a guarantee of a future sale.

Who are favourites to sign Beck?

Football Scotland claims that Celtic may have the edge over the Gers in the race to sign Beck due to the fact that they have a longstanding interest in the player.

It is believed that Philippe Clement’s side only began their pursuit of Beck last month and that may end up proving a handicap in negotiations.

The club are, however, looking at alternatives. Benfica’s David Jurasek is also thought to be an option, with the Czech international likely to be available on loan.

There is expected to be fierce competition for the left-back, with Marseille and two Bundesliga clubs interested, so any deal could prove to be just as difficult to complete as Beck’s.