Jack Butland has ramped up the speculation linking him to Rangers by telling punters a move is "maybe" on the cards.
Michael Beale is on the hunt for a new No 1 with veteran Allan McGregor preparing to leave the club when his contract expires, and will likely hang up his gloves. Jon McLaughlin has been told he can depart, while youngster Robby McCrorie has been handed a chance to impress. An experienced replacement for McGregor is a priority though, and Butland’s name is the one that keeps being mentioned.
He’s currently on loan at Manchester United from Crystal Palace. And while Beale is remaining coy over the possibility of the keeper arriving at Ibrox - suggesting the media were on a “wild goose chase” in an attempt to nail down the likelihood of a switch - the former England international has let slip that he could well be heading to Govan in an unguarded reaction to a fan query.
Whilst signing autographs for fans outside Old Trafford, Butland was put on the spot by one fan, who outright asked: “Are you going to Rangers?” Butland responded with a “pardon?” and was asked “Rangers?” again. Caught somewhat unawares, Butland replied: “Maybe” and went back to signing his name for waiting supporters.
The 30-year-old’s deal at Selhurst Park is up this summer. There’s an offer on the table to stay with Erk Ten hag’s team, but will be second choice at best. He and Tom Heaton are very much backup to David De Gea, and while the wages on offer will dwarf what Rangers can afford, the prospect of playing regularly, competing for trophies and potential Champions League involvement may be more tempting than warming the United bench every now and then.
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