Sky Sports pundit Paul Robinson has urged Rangers youngster Leon King to stay at Ibrox despite strong transfer interest emerging from the Premier League.

The Lowdown: Interest in King

As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, a number of English top-flight sides are keeping an eye on the 18-year-old defender, leading media members to say the Gers will be 'concerned' over a potential exit.

Manchester United, Newcastle and Leeds have all sent scouts to watch the U21 Scotland international, whose Light Blues contract expires in the summer of 2024.

The teenager has made an impressive step-up to the first-team this season, having amassed 12 senior appearances thus far – including four appearances in the Champions League.

The Latest: Stay put 

Robinson, who works as a pundit for Sky Sports, believes King would be better off staying at Ibrox rather than making the move below the border to the Premier League.

Speaking with Football Insider, the former England goalkeeper said:

“For the player, it would be best to stay at Rangers.

“You have to question whether it would be wise to come into the Premier League at 18 years old. Would he be involved in the first team? He would probably play in the under-23s or be loaned out.

“He would be far better off playing for a top-quality team like Rangers week in, week out. You will learn more quickly that way.

“It is better for the player and better for the club. The club will be able to sell you for more in a few years time when you have 50 games behind you.

“Premier League clubs try to sign these young players on the cheap. They try to sign them before they develop into top players.”

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The Verdict: Why leave?

Having featured for a minimum of 45 minutes in three of four Champions League games for the Gers this season, King has been rewarded for his strong performances by manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst.

As per WhoScored, in the European competition, the centre-back has impressively averaged 2.5 tackles, 2.3 clearances and 1 interception per game – illustrating his ability to perform at the highest level.

If he does end up making the move to England, the 18-year-old would not be given the sort of opportunities he gets at Rangers - he would not be exposed to the Champions League with the sides currently linked, for starters.

King should absolutely remain at the Ibrox and develop his career with the Glasgow club - if he continues along his current development path, the Gers could bank a massive profit further down the line.