Rangers will have ‘increased hope’ of bringing 20 G/A forward to Ibrox

Rangers may have ‘increased hope’ of signing Aston Villa striker Cameron Archer due to their relationship with Steven Gerrard, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Gerrard was the manager of the Gers between June 2018 and November 2021 before departing suddenly to take over the reins at Villa Park.

Archer rose to prominence last season, bagging four goals in two Carabao Cup appearances for Villa while also racking up eight goal contributions in just four EFL Trophy outings.

His impressive form in the opening half of the campaign led to a six-month loan move to Championship outfit Preston North End in January where the 20-year-old elevated his game to new heights.

Seven goals and one assist in 20 Championship games followed for Archer, leading to praise from Preston boss Ryan Lowe.

“Cameron has got an abundance of talent,” said the 43-year-old tactician. “His quality levels are fantastic, he’s bullish, strong, he can roll, he has got that little burst of pace too.”

And according to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook, Rangers are one of a handful of sides eager to take Archer on loan next term, along with Middlesbrough and Watford.

O’Rourke believes that Rangers’ existing relationship with Gerrard could work in their favour as they look to fend off the extensive competition for Archer’s signature.

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He told GiveMeSport: “It would definitely give them maybe increased hope that they could agree a deal between both clubs.

“There will be a relationship obviously between Gerrard and Rangers, so maybe he might be more inclined to send Cameron Archer up to Ibrox if it does come down to that, knowing what Rangers can offer the striker as well.”

The Athletic claim that