Rangers' hopes of signing Joey Veerman this summer have been handed a boost after he opened the door to a move abroad following PSV Eindhoven's decision to pull out of the race to sign him, which should put Steven Gerrard's side amongst the favourites to land him from Heerenveen ahead of next season.

The 22-year-old has been linked with the likes of Rangers, PSV and Atalanta in recent months, but a move to the Eredivisie giants no longer seems to be on the cards after they signed Davy Propper from Brighton recently. Also, the Serie A club are set to complete a £17m deal for Teun Koopmeiners, which may quell their interest in the Ibrox target.

Veerman shared his disappointment at PSV's preference for Propper, saying: “It's just what kind of club comes along. I think it will be very difficult in the Netherlands, so there's only one thing to do.

"As it looks now, I'm still at Heerenveen and I'm doing my best and nothing else is going on there."

It has been previously reported that Veerman would cost Rangers £8.5m this summer, but given his superb performances in the Eredivisie in the last two seasons, he could add the Champions League quality that Gerrard needs ahead of their return to Europe's elite club competition next term.

Former Rangers striker Michael Mols was full of praise for him when the links to Gerrard's side first emerged, saying: "He is perfect with the ball and in possession, he’s a really great player. His passing and movement with the ball is really relaxed in a good way."

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Last season saw the 22-year-old contribute an impressive seven goals and 10 assists in just 31 Eredivisie appearances, earning a superb 7.40 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

Given that the majority of Rangers' goals last season came from their strikers, wingers and James Tavernier, a potent midfielder could be exactly what Gerrard needs to ensure that his side retains the Premiership title next season.

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Although Veerman will be an pricey option for the Gers, sporting director Ross Wilson should take advantage of PSV Eindhoven backing out and work quickly to bring Veerman to Ibrox this summer, as he could prove to be a superb addition in both the short- and long-term.

In other news... Gerrard could be set for major boost with "immense" £6.75m-rated "mountain"