Portsmouth have been granted permission to speak to George Edmundson by Oldham Athletic, as reported by Football Insider.

Edmundson has been a target for Glasgow Rangers, who have been bidding for him all summer, but it's Pompey who have taken control of the situation and can now speak to the highly-rated youngster.

Peterborough United are also thought to be have had a bid accepted, but Kenny Jackett is moving quickly to tie up his first big signing of the summer following their play-off disappointment.

It's thought that the Latics value their young player at £600,000, but the report suggests Rangers have only gone to £500,000. Edmundson handed in a transfer request following the two failed bids, prompting the English clubs to come up with the expected fee.

Steven Gerrard's side will now be forced to match that figure or run a serious risk of missing out on their top target.

The defender caught the eye in League Two this season, turning in a series of impressive displays despite the uncertainty around Boundary Park.

They saw three permanent managers come and go in a season of upheaval, but the 21-year-old didn't allow that to affect his game. He played 54 times in all competitions, taking his tally to 62 league starts for Oldham.

The Verdict

It's getting to that time of the summer where clubs have got to start buying, or in this case selling. There is a new manager at Boundary Park and hopefully,rangers the proceeds from this sale can go towards his budget for the coming season.

Edmundson impressed last campaign, he's such an assured and composed defender for his age. He doesn't play like a 21-year-old and whoever secures his services will surely be picking up a star of the future.

Oldham best being looking at a sell-on clause because his next move could well be seven figures.