Rumour Mill: Rangers eye Alvarado and Nelson | Celtic fail in Nwakali bid

Rangers have been linked with Curtis Nelson, left, and Costa Rican goalkeeper Esteban Alvarado. Pictures: Getty Images

Gers keen on Costa Rican ‘keeper

RANGERS have been credited with an interest in Trabzonspor goalkeeper Esteban Alvarado as Mark Warburton seeks reinforcements ahead of the new season.

The former AZ Alkmaar ‘keeper - who was once sent off for kicking an Ajax fan who tried to attack him during a Dutch Eredivisie match - signed a two-year deal with the Turkish Super Lig side in August 2015, but Trabzonspor chiefs are reportedly looking to offload the 27-year-old in a bid to cut down on the club’s wage bill.

And the Ibrox club’s move for Alvarado could spell the end for Cammy Bell, who has been linked with a move away from Rangers. (Scottish Sun)

Nelson a target for Rangers

RANGERS are also keen on bringing out-of-contract Plymouth defender Curtis Nelson to Ibrox.

The 23-year-old, who started his career at Stoke, has made over 200 appearances for the Pilgrims and was appointed captain in June 2014.

Nelson is currently a team-mate of former Rangers winger Gregg Wylde and could call on Hibs defender Jordon Forster as well as ex-Ross County duo Graham Carey and Jake Jervis for advice on a move north. (Various)

Celtic fail in bid for Man City youngster

CELTIC have failed in a bid to take Manchester City youngster Chidiebere Nwakali to Parkhead.

The Nigerian midfielder is yet to make any first-team appearances for City but has had loan spells at Spanish sides Malaga and Girona and IK Start in Norway.

And he was reportedly wanted by Celtic, with the 19-year-old’s brother claiming that City ‘gave Celtic a negative response’ when the Hoops enquired about the defensive midfielder. (Various)

Hoops still in chase for Dack

CELTIC are reportedly still in the chase for Gillingham midfielder Bradley Dack, according to reports in England.

But the Hoops face competition from Bristol City, Brighton and Crystal Palace for the 22-year-old, who is under contract at the Gills until June 2018. (Croydon Advertiser)

Hibs hopeful of concluding Lennon deal

HIBERNIAN are hopeful that Neil Lennon will become the club’s new head coach after offering the former Celtic and Bolton boss a package which they hope will meet with his approval.

Lennon is said to be ‘itching’ for a return to management and is reportedly excited by the prospect of European football and leading Hibs back to the Premiership.

Lennon has asked to see a written contract offer and could be unveiled as Alan Stubbs’ successor this week. (Scottish Sun)

Fyssas ‘open to Hearts return’

FORMER Hearts defender Takis Fyssas has said he would be open to a return to Tynecastle.

Fyssas, who spent two seasons with Hearts between 2005 and 2007 is now 42, and was most recently director of football at Panathinaikos.

But the Euro 2004 winner says he would be keen to join up with Hearts in the future, adding: “Maybe one day I will be part of this great club again. If Hearts need me to help, I will be open to help the club if I am free.” (Evening News)

Killie eye Magpies striker

KILMARNOCK boss Lee Clark is reportedly eyeing a move for Newcastle United forward Adam Armstrong.

The highly-rated striker, 19, scored 20 goals in 40 appearances during a loan spell at Coventry last season, and has made 15 appearances for Newcastle’s first team.

But Lee Clark could look to bolster his squad at Rugby Park with an audacious bid for the Newcastle native. (Various)

Kazim-Richards set for Celtic exit

COLIN Kazim-Richards is set to leave Celtic and join Brazilian outfit Coritiba, according to reports.

The Turkish forward looks likely to follow Carlton Cole out of the Parkhead exit door following the arrival of Brendan Rodgers and reportedly underwent a medical with the Sao Paulo outfit earlier this week.

Kazim-Richards scored twice in 13 games for Celtic. (Various)

English sides join chase for Connolly

A HANDFUL of English League One sides have joined the chase for ex-Kilmarnock captain Mark Connolly, who is available on a free transfer after cancelling his contract at Rugby Park.

The 24-year-old, who missed a large chunk of last season after undergoing surgery on his hip, previously had spells with Bolton, Macclesfield and Crawley in England. (Various)

NEWS IN BRIEF

• Craig Gordon has admitted Scotland’s defeats to France and Italy could have been worse and has urged fans to back Gordon Strachan

• The Celtic goalie also reckons the title race next season could be a four-way fight between Rangers, Celtic, Hearts and Aberdeen

• Paul Paton is reportedly close to joining St Johnstone

• Richie Foran could make out-of-contract Newport striker Scott Boden his first signing since being appointed Inverness CT manager

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Rumour Mill: Rangers eye Alvarado and Nelson | Celtic fail in Nwakali bid | Hibs close to Lennon deal