Why Rangers now have cut-price transfer opportunity as James Penrice exit imminent

Rangers may be able to strike a bargain deal with AEK Athens for James Penrice soon.

The left-back has been linked with a move to Ibrox once again this summer as Derek McInnes looks to bolster his backline.

At the moment, Tuur Rommens is the only natural option at the Scottish manager's disposal for the left side of the defence.

Penrice has endured a difficult spell at AEK and Ibrox could potentially be his next destination.

The 27-year-old moved to the Greek outfit from Hearts last summer but has struggled for regular game time in Attica.

With the Scottish defender's situation at Allwyn Arena uncertain, the Bears could potentially have an opportunity to agree a cut-price deal.

Why James Penrice could be available for cheap amid Rangers interest

AEK paid around £2million to sign Penrice and his current contract still has two years remaining.

The Greek club's manager, Marko Nikolic, hasn't really been impressed by the former Hearts ace during his time there.

According to Sportime on 19 July, it "may not be long" before AEK officially begin talks to sign a new left-back if they decide to sell the Scottish player.

Ibrox News have covered reports of Rangers' interest in Penrice since January and they continue to monitor his situation.

If the team from Athens do end up deciding to replace the Scotland national, there's every possibility the Gers could bring his price tag down.

One hurdle Derek McInnes must navigate for James Penrice deal

McInnes was unable to work with Penrice at Hearts last season, but he may finally get that chance at Rangers.

The ex-Kilmarnock boss is known to favour building the core of his team around local talent and the left-back fits that bill.

What the Gers can offer the defender is a return to a somewhat familiar environment after an underwhelming spell in Greece.

With McInnes hoping to bring success back to the Light Blues, the prospect of winning silverware at Ibrox should also be enticing.

Despite the Govan side holding evident appeal, they surely can't guarantee Penrice a place in the starting line-up given Rommens' recent form.

That's one hurdle the Glaswegian outfit could possibly have to navigate if they hope to convince the defender.