Rumour Mill: Rangers sign Tavernier and Waghorn | Celtic

Wigan's James Tavernier in a pre-season friendly match against Hibs in La Manga. Picture: Eric McCowat

RANGERS agree deal for Wigan duo James Tavernier and Martyn Waghorn; Celtic keeper Logan Bailly sets Twitter alight; Malonga says Hibs need to follow Hearts example; plus more news and gossip in Sunday’s Rumour Mill

Rangers make offer for Tavernier and Waghorn

Rangers have reportedly reached a deal for Wigan Athletic duo James Tavernier and Martyn Waghorn.

Rangers had their initial overtures rejected by Wigan but have presented a new, improved package to the English side.

The deal, reported in Wigan Today, could see Tavernier, 23, move to Glasgow along with 25-year-old Waghorn. (Wigan Today)

Logan Bailly sets Twitter alight

Belgian Logan Bailly made a memorable debut for Celtic in its 4 - 1 victory in a friendly against Eibar.

While yet to challenge number one Craig Gordon for his shirt, Ronny Deila is reportedly encouraged that Bailly is more than able to cover for and keep Gordon on his toes from the performance he saw in Spain.

The impressive start for the 29-year-old was evident on Twitter with many of the club’s supporters voicing their approval on social media.

@john_nufc42 tweeted: “What a debut Logan is having. Going to be a canny keeper for me,” while @EzraBottlemen posted: “Logan Bailly penalty save hero!” (HITC)

Hearts example is one to follow, says Malonga

Hibs striker Dominique Malonga reportedly believes the Easter Road outfit are favourite for the Championship.

The Congolese national thinks this season it will be a fight out between Hibs and Rangers but says Hibs want to emulate city rivals Hearts by steamrolling to the Championship title and avoiding the play-offs.

Hearts won the Championship last season with 21 points to spare above second-placed Hibs. (Scotland on Sunday)

Mark Warburton plays down Hibs test

Rangers boss Mark Warburton has reportedly tried to play down next Saturday’s test against Hibernian at Easter Road, claiming ‘it’s not as if we’re playing Real Madrid’.

The former Brentford manager will make his debut in the Petrofac Training Cup first round tie against Hibs with all eyes on his six new signings.

Warburton reportedly sees this as preparation for the start of the Championship campaign with the new season beginning on August 8th. (Scottish Sunday Express)

Nadir Ciftci dreaming of Champions League

New Celtic signing Nadir Ciftci is reportedly already dreaming of making a big impact in the Hoops European campaign.

Although he missed two chances against Stjarnan on Wednesday, he believes he can live up to the £1.5 million price tag.

The 23-year-old, who moved to Parkhead from United this summer, is keen to net his first goal for Celtic on the next leg of the Champions League qualifier. (Scottish Sun on Sunday)

Kenny McLean has something to prove

Aberdeen midfielder Kenny McLean has reportedly vowed to show Dons fans he was worth the £300,000 boss Derek McInnes paid to secure his move from St Mirren.

McLean has already made an impact, helping to seal a 3 - 0 victory over Croatian side Rijeka in the first leg of their Europa League second round qualifier.

Despite the goal, McLean has admitted he is not yet hit his stride at Pittodrie following his move from Paisley at rge start of the year. (Scotland on Sunday)

NEWS IN BRIEF:

• St Mirren gave former Burnley pair Luke Conlan and Cameron Howieson, former Queen’s Park full-back Shaun Rooney and former Macclesfield striker Malachi Lavelle Moore a trial in their 1-0 defeat to Bradford City. (Sun on Sunday)

• Derby County have asked for £2.5 million from Cardiff City for Scotland forward Johnny Russell after rejecting a £1 million offer. (Sunday People)

• Nadir Ciftci has offered to take Celtic’s penalties in their Champions League qualifier against Stjarnan in Iceland. (Scotland on Sunday)

• Striker Amido Balde has agreed a two-year deal with French club Metz after leaving Celtic. (vitalfootball.co.uk)