Former Ayr United manager Ian McCall has claimed Lawrence Shankland was "very close" to joining Rangers last January.
The striker's contract expired at the end of last season, and he made the move to Dundee United where he's scored 15 goals in just 12 games this season.
Record Sport revealed Celtic and Rangers have been scouting him in recent weeks, but in an appearance on BBC Radio Scotland's Sportsound his former manager was asked why neither showed an interest in January, when he could have signed a pre-contract deal.
"That was close," McCall, now manager of Partick Thistle, responded.
"It was very close. Particularly for one of them to come in and take him."
Pressed by host Richard Gordon on whether it was "the blue half", the former Ayr boss responded "yes".
McCall also admitted a Championship side also made their move for the striker before the close of the winter window.
He continued: "We did turn down a lot of money in on January 1 last season. I won't say who, but from the Championship.
"There was interest from a lot of other clubs. I don't think there was anything firm, or firm enough, and Lawrence has made a choice that didn't sit well with a lot of Ayr United supporters because they're in the same league, but in terms of the club - not in terms of the team - it's a step up.
"He thought it was good progression in his career."
Shankland was called-up to the Scotland squad today, and McCall was quick to remind people that he touted his striker for a call last season.
"I think it's well deserved, I was hoping the producer would produce the audio of me saying it should have happened eight months ago and getting laughed out of court!"
