Rangers have identified Zander Clark as a potential replacement for Allan McGregor, according to The Daily Record. 

The lowdown

McGregor's contract expires at the end of the season, and there's a possibility that the 39-year-old will choose to retire.

The 'magnificent' veteran has already established himself as an Ibrox legend, with Steven Gerrard declaring him 'one of Rangers' best ever' goalkeepers. Last season, he was named SPFL Player of the Year for his part in the club's unbeaten run to the Premiership title.

Meanwhile, the £405,000-rated Clark has racked up 140 appearances in the Scottish top flight, keeping 49 clean sheets (via Transfermarkt), and St Johnstone manager Callum Davidson labelled him  'phenomenal' last month.

The latest

The Daily Record's report states that Rangers are 'closely' monitoring Clark's contract situation, as his current deal is up in the summer, raising the prospect of a free transfer.

St Johnstone have initiated talks over an extension, but the Gers, along with a number of second and third-tier English clubs, are circling.

Clark is one of the 'keepers that Rangers believe could compete with Jon McLaughlin and Robby McCrorie if McGregor decides to move on or hang up his gloves for good.

The verdict

Clark has earned a call-up to the Scotland squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers, a testament to his impressive form. Indeed, Rangers know first-hand just how good he is after he made two penalty shoot-out saves to deny them a place in the Scottish Cup semi-finals last season.

However, you could question the wisdom of having three goalkeepers compete for the one place, which is seemingly Rangers' intention, rather than having an established first-choice with two reliable deputies. Also, if Clark is to swap Perth for Glasgow, he might not be content with continually being rotated in and out of the team.

In other news, how does Steven Gerrard feel about possibly taking the Aston Villa job?