A major update has emerged on Rangers defender Leon King, amid speculation over his future at the club.

What's the talk?

Journalist Pete O'Rourke has excitingly claimed that the club are poised to open discussions with the academy product over extended terms at Ibrox.

The reporter has also revealed that Premier League sides Newcastle and Manchester United are keen on his services, with both sides able to pin him to a pre-contract agreement in January if he does not sign a new deal with the Gers.

He Tweeted: "Rangers are planning contract talks with highly-rated youngster Leon King amid interest from Manchester United and Newcastle United."

Exciting talent

Rangers fans will surely love this transfer update from O'Rourke as it suggests that the club are working hard to ensure King's future is in Glasgow and not south of the border.

Two teams from the English top-flight are said to be interested and that could be a cause for concern given that his current contract is due to expire at the end of the season.

The Scottish youth international has shown signs of promise in the Gers academy and could be one to watch for the future. He made his Premiership debut for the club earlier this year, at the age of 17, which suggests that Steven Gerrard saw a lot of potential in the young centre-back as he put his faith in him at senior level.

Therefore, it could be a big blow to lose him, particularly on a measly compensation deal, at the end of the campaign. The interest in his services is worrying and that is why fans will love to read this major update on the club's attempts to keep him.

Supporters will surely be buzzing with Ross Wilson and Gio van Bronckhorst's plans to pin him down to extended terms. If they can tie him down to a new contract then that could evaporate the clubs circling around his signature and ensure that he is a player who can be utilised further down the line by the Dutch coach.

He could be a player who is part of the long-term plans at Ibrox and could save them money in the future, as he could fill up a first-team spot that would otherwise be occupied by a potentially expensive signing.

AND in other news, Gio must avoid 1st Rangers disaster with £21k-p/w "student" who's a "joy to work with"...