Forgotten Jack Simpson's Rangers exit could spark the arrival of John Souttar claims pundit Alex Rae.
Souttar has penned a pre-contract agreement to take him to Ibrox in the summer, but Hearts remain committed to keeping him at Tynecastle until his deal ends.
But Rangers midfielder Rae reckons there could be some wheeling and dealing done to secure an early departure from the capital, starting with Simpson's exit.
Simpson hasn’t featured at all under Gio van Bronckhorst and only got back on the bench for the last three games.
A number of English Championship clubs are circling the 25-year-old as he remains well out of the picture with the Premiership champions.
Rae told Clyde 1 Superscoreboard: "It really depends on how much they want him (Souttar to Rangers).
"Now, you could try and punt the boy Simpson.
"There are links with Middlesborough, Queens Park Rangers and Sheffield United as well.
"So there are teams of a decent stature that are looking to bring him in.
"If you could sell him for £500K you could maybe throw a couple of quid on top of that (to offer Hearts).
"You would weaken Hearts, but if you get rid of Simpson and bring in Souttar I think Rangers are stronger going into the second part of the season.
"I think the deal has to get done, but I think it will drag on to the end of the month.
"I think Hearts will look for top dollar and then it will come to some sort of resolution."
