Steven Gerrard takes Rangers transfer stance over Cameron Archer as secret talks set to scupper Ibrox option

Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard looks to have shut down any potential pathway for striker Cameron Archer to join his former side Rangers this summer.

The 19-year-old produced several eye-catching displays last season while in the Championship with Preston and looks set to get a chance with the Villa first-team during pre-season. Gerrard looks set to make the final call on where the England youth cap moves next season or if he could be handed his chance in the English Premier League.

Reports south of the border have indicated that a move to Rangers is on the cards if he is allowed to leave the club this summer, but Preston boss Ryan Lowe appears to have the inside track with Gerrard going into the new season. The confident boss reckons his side would be the perfect fit for Archer next season with a loan switch to Deepdale appearing to be the top option for the teenager.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Lowe opened up on his talks with Archer and the former Ibrox boss. He said: "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."

Gio van Bronckhorst is keen to add to his attacking options this summer with doubts over Alfredo Morelos long-term future with the Europa League finalists as he approaches the final year of his deal. Rangers are closing in on PAOK frontman Antonio Colak as their first summer signing.

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