RANGERS are close to extending the loan deal for Arsenal midfielder Gedion Zelalem
The USA Under-23 player originally signed until January but is now likely to spend a full season in Scotland.
However, veteran John Eustace will not be signing for Rangers.
The former Derby County man has been training with club since the summer but is currently dealing with a family illness.
Ibrox manager Mark Warburton revealed: “The feedback I’ve had from Arsenal on Gedion’s time here has been very positive.
“He is speaking to his family this week and, hopefully, we are close to securing him.
“Liam Brady left his job as Arsenal Academy Director and now has an important role in charge of their loan players.
“He was up for the Hibs game and I speak to him regularly on the phone.
“Our job is to make sure we have an environment here which is conducive to the player’s development.
“The current deal is until January. But as long as everyone is happy we will extend that.”
Warburton had hoped that Eustace’s experience would have a steadying influence on his squad.
He may now look to recruit another senior player.
He said: “John has a domestic situation. He is dealing with a family illness and right now his focus has to be with his family.
“All we can do is wish him well.”
“We may possibly look for another experienced campaigner, but they are few and far between.
“I have been pleased with the role of the senior players who are already here.
“Guys like Kenny Miller, Dean Shiels and Lee Wallace have all helped the young ones.”
Warburton will address his first Rangers AGM on Friday and admits it will be a new experience for him.
He said: “My speech is being prepared. It will be the first for me and I’m looking forward to it.
“There’s no secrets. Nothing to hide. We do what we do.
“If they ask a question and I’m allowed to answer it, I will.
“There’s nothing I can say that will upset the apple cart as far as I’m aware.”
Warburton’s speech to the shareholders may be a closely-guarded secret but he did confirm one thing.
He won’t be wearing a magic hat.James Tavernier aiming for Europe – click here to read more
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