Rangers' interest in centre-back Willian Pacho is “legit”, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: Interest in Pacho

The Gers hold a keen interest in the Royal Antwerp centre-back, with The Scottish Sun reporting that the SPFL side have scouted the 21-year-old and will go head-to-head with Monaco to sign the Ecuadorian.

The report also claims that the Belgium side’s general manager, Sven Jaecques, hinted they’re already analysing replacements for the youngster such is the level of interest.

He said: “If a transfer bid is offered that we cannot refuse - and I must stress that we haven't received a suitable one yet - we have to be ready with a replacement for him."

The Latest: Jones update

Jones revealed to GiveMeSport that Rangers are now convinced he’s the right fit to challenge Connor Goldson and Ben Davies.

He said: “The scouting of him seems legit and they’re happy with the type of player he is. Now we wait to find out whether they will take that next step in terms of trying to sign him.”

The Verdict: Interesting move

At only 21, Pacho boasts great experience in European competition and also for one of the main title challengers in Belgium over the last couple of years, with them finishing in the top four for three years in a row.

Pacho has featured in 11 clean sheets across all competitions this year, including in the UEFA Europa Conference League qualifiers.

He’d certainly be an intriguing arrival with Michael Beale facing difficult injury concerns at centre-back since his arrival, as Goldson and Davies were both unavailable to play his first game, while continued problems to Filip Helander and John Souttar remain on the injury table at Ibrox, so more backup is perhaps needed.