How John Souttar performed under Russell Martin as ex-Rangers boss wants reunion

John Souttar could be heading for a reunion with former Rangers boss Russell Martin at Leicester City.

The centre-back's future in Govan is in doubt, with Derek McInnes keen to reshape the Gers' backline.

The Bears have been linked to new defenders, starting off with Luke Graham, who opted for England and Stoke City instead, and the latest link being Olwethu Makhanya.

It was clear that defence was an issue for the Light Blues last season, as Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius' departures have left the club short in a key position.

Replacements are being eyed up, but that leaves some players in some uncertainty.

Souttar is one of them, though his fate may be decided soon, with Martin and Leicester now lurking.

Russell Martin wants John Souttar at Leicester City

Ibrox News understands that Souttar is one player Rangers may sell this summer, after he was left out of the squad that McInnes took to Spain for pre-season.

It is unknown what the Bears value the Scot at, as it's likely that his stock has fallen since signing from Hearts in 2022.

The 29-year-old has played for Rangers 132 times since coming to Hearts as a free transfer, and looks to have played for the last time as a Light Blue at Ibrox.

According to Sky Sports correspondent Anthony Joseph, Leicester City are interested in signing Souttar.

Martin joined the Foxes earlier this summer and is ready to conduct a rebuild to help the club gain promotion back to the Championship.

However, his side faces competition from second-tier sides, one being Sheffield United, who are said to be leading the race, according to the Scottish Sun.

Despite this, it would be no surprise to see Souttar chose to continue his love affair and join Martin at Leicester.

Why Martin loves Souttar so much

Martin allowed Souttar to wear the Rangers armband whenever James Tavernier didn't feature, a decision in itself that was controversial.

While there was uncertainty about the centre-back's future in the early stages of last summer, he came out and said that he will would "100 per cent" for the club despite all the noise, while speaking to the BBC.

He did often try, but that wasn't always enough.

Just look at Souttar's performances when he played under Martin, as like many others, he was poor, and would not be missed at Ibrox.