Rangers transfer linked Cameron Archer blow as Preston hold direct Steven Gerrard talks

Rangers' transfer links to Cameron Archer could be even less now after Ryan Lowe revealed talks with Steven Gerrard over a Preston return.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst is in the market for summer recruits and was earlier this month linked with a move for the Aston Villa man by talkSPORT's Alex Crook. The 20-year-old spent time in the English Championship last season at Deepdale and his impressive form alerted other clubs after seven goals in just 20 appearances.

But Lowe is confident over another deal for Archer having held talks directly with former Rangers boss Gerrard. He knows the young striker wants to turn out for the English Premier League side one day but believes starring in England's second tier may well just be the way forward to do that. A move could rumble on over the summer as he could spend pre-season with the Villa squad before any final decision is made.

The Preston boss told Sky Sports : "He wants to represent Aston Villa and for him to get more games under his belt in a competitive league like the Championship, that may be the way forward.

"I'm quietly confident. I've spoken to Steven Gerrard and what could happen is he's there for pre-season and doesn't go anymore."

Rangers are yet to bring in any summer additions bar John Souttar who penned a pre-contract deal from Hearts earlier this year.

Van Bronckhorst was handed a major boost by Connor Goldson after he penned a fresh long-term deal while veteran trio Allan McGregor, Scott Arfield and Steven Davis have all committed for another year.

Antonio Colak remains a top target as the Light Blues look to get a deal done with PAOK.

Champions League qualifiers are on the horizon while the Ibrox men will want to make a flying start as they bid to win