Southampton hope to sign Celtic and Rangers defenders, Eddie Howe identifies big-name star to bring to Parkhead, Leicester City join chase for Hibs ace, half of Scottish referees 'support Celtic or Rangers' - Scottish Premiership Rumour Mill

Wednesday’s Scottish football news and gossip

Everton's Josh King, formerly of Bournemouth, is wanted by incoming Celtic boss Eddie Howe. Picture: Getty

Howe wants King as first signing

Incoming Celtic boss Eddie Howe wants to make Josh King his first signing in Glasgow as he looks to convince the former Bournemouth striker to snub interest from EPL sides to be reunited with his old mentor north of the border. (Scottish Sun)

New deal for Tavernier

James Tavernier has signed a two-year extension to his Rangers deal keeping him at Ibrox until 2024. The Englishman has captained the side to the Scottish Premiership title this season as the club claimed their 55th league championship. (The Scotsman)

Rangers-Celtic picked for TV

Rangers’ Scottish Cup fourth-round tie with Celtic has been picked for live broadcast. Premier Sports will screen the Old Firm clash at 4pm on Saturday April 17. (The Scotsman)

Southampton eye Old Firm youngsters

Southampton are interested in signing Rangers centre-back Kyle McClelland and Celtic’s left-sided defender Leo Hjelde. The pair are currently on loan at Falkirk and Ross County, respectively. (Scottish Sun)

Hughes: Half the refs support Old Firm

Ross County boss John Hughes has backed up his old friend Brian Rice, manager of Hamilton Accies, after his outburst against referees, claiming that at least half of officials in Scotland are Celtic and Rangers fans who don’t care about the smaller clubs.

Neilson message to Hearts

Robbie Neilson is urging all involved with Hearts to remain positive during the challenging period the club faces as they stand on the cusp of winning the Championship. (Evening News)

Leicester join chase for Hibs star

Leicester City are the latest English Premier League side to show an interest in Hibs left-back Josh Doig after having him watched during the Scottish Premiership side’s cup win over Queen of the South on Monday. (Scottish Sun)

Marciano to return

Jack Ross is set to recall Ofir Marciano for this weekend’s trip to face champions Rangers at Ibrox despite stand-in goalkeeper Matt Macey’s impressive performance in Hibs’ Scottish Cup victory over Queen of the South. (Evening News)

Scotland submit plans for 15,000 fans

Scotland look to keep hold on their four Euro 2020 matches at Hampden Park by submitting a plan to have between 10,000 and 15,000 supporters at the first match against Czech Republic. (Daily Record)

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