Football transfer rumours and gossip: Rangers eye second Motherwell target and Anthony Stokes set for Hibs return

RANGERS could swoop for Motherwell’s Louis Moult when the transfer window opens.

The Sun reports that the 24-year-old striker is being targeted by Pedro Caixinha, following rumoured interest in Steelmen teammate Ben Heneghan.

Defensive reinforcements will be a priority in the window, with the Daily Mail reporting that potential ligament injury to Danny Wilson could rule him out of the Gers’ Europa League qualifiers.

Anthony Stokes could be set for a return to Hibs.

The Irish striker had a torrid time at Blackburn this season, suffering relegation on the final day.

Neil Lennon is reported to be interested in bringing Stokes back to Easter Road, as well as making Efe Ambrose’s loan deal from Celtic permanent.

Steven Whittaker’s Scotland and Norwich teammate Russell Martin says the fullback isn’t short of offers as he gets set to leave the Canaries.

Former clubs Rangers and Hibs, as well as several Football League clubs, are said to be interested, according to the Eastern Daily Press.

Aberdeen are facing a cup final injury crisis, saya The Press and Journal, with Peter Pawlett joining captain Ryan Jack in a fitness fight to face Celtic.

Derek McInnes says he’ll have youth players on the bench when the Dons welcome the Hoops to Pittodrie on league business, including 16-year-old Dean Campbell.

Partick boss Alan Archibald says his name being linked to the Swindon Town job should be seen as a compliment to the Jags.

Alan Mannus is set to sign a new deal with St Johnstone, according to The Courier.

Down south

The Independent claims Atletico Madrid are interested in Leicester striker Jamie Vardy and Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez.

Promoted Brighton are plotting an ambitious move for Liverpool’s midfield stalwart Lucas, reports the Daily Mirror.

Football Italia says Inter Milan will offer to double Mauricio Pochettino’s wages in a bid to tempt the Tottenham manager to the Serie A club.

Barcelona are reportedly interested in re-signing the Southampton midfielder, the Daily Express insists.

The London Evening Standard reports that West Ham are interested in signing the Manchester City defender, but will face stiff competition for the 32-year-old Argentinian, who is out of contract at the end of the season.

Wolves manager Paul Lambert is on the brink of quitting amid major differences over the input of super-agent Jorge Mendes, according to the Daily Star.