Blackpool have opened talks with Rangers over the possibility of making goalkeeper Jak Alnwick's loan move permanent in the January transfer window, a report from Football Insider has claimed.

Alnwick joined the League One side on a season-long loan during the summer transfer window, and has been an ever-present in the league since then, helping Blackpool to fourth in the current third-tier standings, conceding 22 goals in 19 games in the process.

That is something that has clearly made an impression at Bloomfield Road, with the Seasiders reportedly now opening discussion with Rangers about keeping the goalkeeper in the north-west of England long-term.

Having joined Rangers in January 2017, Alnwick has struggled for opportunities at Ibrox, making just 11 appearances in all competitions for the Scottish giants.

The 26-year-old's contract with Rangers is set to expire at the end of this season, meaning the January window will be their last chance to receive a fee for the 'keeper, before Alnwick is able to walk away for free in the summer, if no new deal is agreed by that point.

The Verdict

This seems like a smart move for all concerned.

Alnwick has certainly been a useful addition for Blackpool since his arrival at Bloomfield Road, so you can understand why they would want to keep him as a reliable option long term.

With the likes of Allan McGregor and Wes Foderingham above him the pecking order at Rangers, it is hard to see Alnwick getting much game time there any time soon, meaning this move is likely to benefit him in that sense, while also giving the Scottish giants to at least make some money from his departure.