Calvin Bassey's superb performances for Rangers last season have unsurprisingly seen him linked with a move away from Ibrox in recent weeks but Giovanni van Bronckhorst may already have a ready-made replacement in James Maxwell.

A reunion with Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa has been touted as one option for the Nigerian defender, whose superb performance in the Europa League final against Eintracht Frankfurt will certainly have attracted the interest of those in Europe's elite divisions.

With van Bronckhorst reportedly unconvinced by Borna Barisic, Rangers could be lining up with a new left-back by the start of next season, but the Dutch manager should consider turning to Maxwell as his new starter, although his future at Ibrox remains in the balance as he is yet to agree to a new deal.

The 20-year-old academy graduate earned a lot of plaudits for his performances out on loan with Queen of the South in the 2020/21 season, while he was also a regular Ayr United in the Championship last season, contributing an impressive five goals and four assists in 34 league appearances.

During his time at Queen of the South, the manager at the time Allan Johnston spoke highly of Maxwell, saying:

“He is a really good young kid and is doing really well. He has got a big future ahead of him and I’m sure the experience of playing week in week out will help his development.”

[freshpress-quiz id=“712674"]

It is impressive that Maxwell has held his own at left-back in the Championship at just 20-years-old and if van Bronckhorst can offer him assurances of game time at Ibrox next season, then perhaps he would be convinced to extend his stay with the club.

It would be a shame to lose the 20-year-old before he makes his first senior appearance for the Gers, so the club must try and get him to sign a new contract at Ibrox, especially if Bassey is to leave.

And, in other news... Rangers set to miss out on midfield maestro signing