Rangers midfielder is a target for English League outfit

Hartlepool United boss Paul Hartley is believed to be planning a loan swoop for Rangers winger Josh McPake.

Rangers want the wide man from Coatbridge to undertake pre-season training with them, with two years left on his contract, but he would probably then be sent out on loan.

And it has emerged that former Hamilton, Hearts and Hibs star Hartley has identified the 20-year-old as a target for their League Two campaign.

McPake has extensive experience at that level with Harrogate Town and Tranmere Rovers, where he spent the second half of last season.

The Northern Echo reports that Hartley has identified McPake as a target, but the remainder of his contract would be a barrier to a permanent move, with a loan the likely initial deal.

However, they face competition from Carlisle United, while Scottish Championship clubs including Raith Rovers and Inverness Caledonian Thistle are keen on a loan deal.

Having spent 10 years in the dugout at Alloa, Dundee, Falkirk and Cove Rangers, it's believed that Hartley is likely to look north of the border for potential signing targets.

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