Rangers target John Souttar expects to have reached a final decision on his future by next week.
The Hearts star is already set on making a move this summer when his Tynecastle deal expires, with the only issue still to be resolved is where he’ll make his next move to.
The 25-year-old centre-back is understood to have as many as 10 clubs chasing his signature - with Gers one of the leading contenders to secure the Scotland ace on a pre-contract.
Ibrox boss Gio van Bronckhorst - who is also trailing Vitesse captain Danilho Doekhi - faces stiff competition from Blackburn, who are hoping to make a Premier League push under Tony Mowbray.
A reunion with brother Harry at Michael O’Neill’s Stoke is another option while Sheffield United are also rumoured to be keen.
But former Dundee United stopper Souttar is keeping his options open and will wait to see what other offers emerge over the weekend before coming to a final decision next week.
His representatives have already held initial talks with several clubs, including Gers, and his decision is likely to come down to which suitor can offer the best overall financial and footballing package.
Rangers chiefs - who themselves face losing Connor Goldson this summer as the Englishman stalls on his own contract renewal - are hopeful they can fight off the competition with the lure of guaranteed Champions League action on offer at Ibrox, so long as they pip Celtic to the title.
