Rangers exit to Premier League update emerges on Jack Butland as transfer window nears
Premier League clubs currently appear not to be interested in a move to sign Rangers keeper Jack Butland, according to Alan Nixon.
The Sun journalist reported via Twitter on 28 May that the Ibrox star isn’t being targeted at present by teams in the English top flight, with Celtic’s Matt O’Riley said to be “out on his own” in that regard.
Former Crystal Palace man Butland arrived in Glasgow on a free transfer a year ago and excelled under both Michael Beale and Philippe Clement, with Nottingham Forest rejected during the January transfer window [Scottish Sun, 25 February].
Big-money bids for the Englishman this summer have been anticipated, but it appears they are not currently on the way.
Asked specifically about the 31-year-old’s chances of an exit to the Premier League Nixon answered: “Not aware of any interest”.
Philippe Clement to keep star Rangers keeper?
His error that helped decide the Scottish Cup final aside there is a strong argument for Butland being the best player at Rangers heading into the transfer window.
His performances this season have done plenty to keep the club in contention for trophies for as long as they were, and losing him would undoubtedly be a blow.
Speculation over an Ibrox return for Liam Kelly [Sky Sports, 24 May] may have heightened speculation that Butland would be subject to exit offers sooner rather than later.
But with number two Robby McCrorie also a potential departure it is possible that a new signing is to replace him.
For his part Butland hasn’t expressed anything that would suggest he has plans to leave Rangers, and his heartbreaking end to the campaign at Hampden may even make him want to come back stronger next year.
But big money offers from the Premier League tend to be enough to make most clubs and players in world football pay attention so nothing can be guaranteed.
However, if there really is a lack of interest from the richest league in the world it would be something of a surprise, and a possible boost for Rangers and Clement.
Whether a lucrative Butland sale has been priced into funding the summer rebuild might mean other plans have to change, but for now it seems that a major sale isn’t nailed on.
In other Rangers news, a key priority for the manager is close to be secured at Ibrox.
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