Steven Gerrard to torpedo Liverpool, Rangers plans as Aston Villa close in on 40-goal forward

Steven Gerrard is prepared to upset former clubs Liverpool and Rangers after a report revealed 40-goal striker Rory Wilson is nearing a move to Aston Villa.

16-year-old Wilson is quickly becoming one of the most in-demand youngsters in world football. The striker has already plundered 40 goals in Rangers’ youth ranks this season and has earned caps at Scotland Under-17 level.

That sparked interest from some of the Premier League’s heaviest hitters. Per the Daily Star, Liverpool, Man Utd and Man City were all eyeing a swoop.

Rangers are understood to be keen to hand Wilson his first professional contract with all haste. However, the report claimed the youngster wishes to try his luck where the lights are brighter south of the border.

Now, the Scotsman reports it is in fact Aston Villa and former Gers boss Steven Gerrard that could win the race.

The outlet acknowledges Wilson is ‘likely to leave Ibrox’ and Gerrard has ‘moved swiftly’ to sign Wilson. In their words, Aston Villa are now poised to ‘win the race’.

It’s confirmed Rangers have offered professional terms to Wilson. Though the lure of moving to England will likely prove too strong.

Given his age, a compensation fee of around £300,000 would be paid to Rangers if Wilson departs.

There had been speculation Wilson had already rejected Rangers’ contract offer. However, that narrative has been challenged by one observer. Though he did acknowledge interest in Wilson is widespread.

Heart & Hand Podcast host David Edgar said (via RangersNews.uk): “I asked the club about this and they said that he hasn’t turned down any offer contrary to some reports on Twitter.

“But of course there may well be interest. Rangers would be due a development fee of around £200-£300k which in