Rangers should move for Hearts’ John Souttar following Gerrard’s latest transfer comments

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Glasgow Rangers are on the lookout for another new defender.

Glasgow Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has admitted to Sky Sports that he is still in the market for a new centre-back, after telling reporters how Bruno Alves is on the verge of joining Italian side Parma.

The experienced Portugal defender will have his contract at Ibrox cut short allowing for a move to the Serie A side, prompting Gerrard to consider his options as he seeks further defensive cover.

“Bruno’s contract is being terminated mutually,” said Gerrard. “That’s happening today I believe so both parties are really happy and we both move on.

“He’s about to be unveiled at Parma and we wish him all the best. There are areas I’d still like to improve – central defender. With Bruno leaving we need extra cover there.”

Bruno Alves’s exit leaves Rangers short on options at the back, and one potential replacement the Gers should consider is a move for Hearts’ highly-rated defender John Souttar.

The 21-year-old has bags of potential and is arguably ready to make a step up from Hearts, having excelled at Tynecastle last season and subsequently attracting interest from south of the border.

A report in the Scottish Sun back in April claimed Derby County were monitoring his progress with the view of making a £1 million move, but manager Gary Rowett’s ensuing exit put an end to the speculation.

Souttar came in alongside Christophe Berra and formed a solid partnership with the experienced defender. At 21, he has his whole career ahead of him and a better standard at Rangers would help him develop.

Gerrard has made several signings since becoming manager of the Ibrox club, but he is still short of options at the back and prising Souttar away from Hearts would be one of his best additions of the summer.

With the season not too far away, any move for the Scotland U21 defender should be considered as quickly as possible as his price is only likely to increase the closer we get to the opening game of the campaign.