Mason Cotcher holding Rangers transfer 'interest' but Arsenal and Brighton also keen on Sunderland teen

Young Sunderland prospect Mason Cotcher is reportedly on Rangers' radar.

The England youth international striker netted 10 times for the Mackems' Under 18 side last term as they pushed Manchester City all the way in the title race. He was rewarded with a spot in Tony Mowbray's first team squad for an FA Cup victory over Shrewsbury Town at the beginning of the year.

Now the Sunderland Echo claim that Rangers are one of a number of clubs keeping an eye on him. And the Ibrox outfit could face stiff competition from south of the border. Cotcher turned out for Arsenal's Under 18s over the weekend in their Under-18 Premier League Cup clash away to Middlesbrough. Brighton are also thought to be keeping tabs on the teenager. The youngster is till signed to a scholarship deal at the Academy of Light, which means in theory he could leave the Black Cats for another club at any time.

Sunderland offered Cotcher a new deal in the summer. But they couldn't reach an agreement and seemed resigned to losing him as bigger clubs circled. However, they will stand to receive compensation if he does move on.

That seems to have piqued Rangers' interest. But it remains to be seen whether that will result in a concrete attempt to sign Cotcher.