Nikola Katic close to joining Rangers

Boss Steven Gerrard feared he was set to lose out on the 21-year-old NK Slaven Belupo centre-back to Russian outfit Spartak Moscow.

But they have now pulled out of the race, leaving Rangers free to wrap up a deal as Gerrard looks to add another piece to his Ibrox renovation project.

Sources close to Rangers say an agreement for the Croatia international is very, very close''.

Katic's agent Mladen Kliskinic, meanwhile, has also dropped a major hint after taking to Facebook to post a picture taken outside the Manchester Institute of Health & Performance on Tuesday morning with the message: ONE PLAYER, Medical test, 5 hours, All good.''

With defender Connor Goldson expected to complete his #3million switch from Brighton, this latest news will bring more welcome cheer to the Ibrox faithful.

Rangers' defence creaked continuously last term as Bruno Alves, Fabio Cardoso, Danny Wilson, David Bates, Ross McCrorie and Russell Martin all failed to provide an effective back line.

But Gerrard has acted quickly to beef up the centre of his defence, with midfielder Scott Arfield expected to provide an extra layer of security in front following his move from Burnley.

Rangers have also brought goalkeeper Allan McGregor back to the club, made Jamie Murphy's loan switch from Brighton permanent and signed Liverpool youngster Ovie Ejaria on a year-long loan

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