Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has played down speculation linking the club with a move to sign Wigan Athletic playmaker Nick Powell.

The latter has been mightily impressive for the Latics over the last couple of years - the 24-year-old has scored four goals and produced four assists for Paul Cook's men this term, and scored 15 goals in 45 appearances for the club in their promotion-winning season in League One last term.

Reports had claimed that Gerrard's Rangers, as well as their Old Firm rivals Celtic and teams such as RB Leipzig and Brighton and Hove Albion, were interested in landing the former Manchester United man on a pre-contract deal, with his current deal at the DW Stadium expiring at the end of this season.

But speaking to Sky Sports about the speculation linking the Gers with a move to land the midfielder, Gerrard dismissed said rumours, insisting: "It's the first I've heard of it."

This will act as a major boost for Wigan, who will undoubtedly be looking to keep hold of their star-man this month, as they prepare for a relegation dog-fight this term. Paul Cook's men currently sit 20th in the Sky Bet Championship table, six points clear of the relegation zone after just two wins in their last 15 games.

The Verdict

It's a case of one down, three to go as far as Wigan are concerned, with Rangers seemingly leaving the race to sign Powell.

It would be a massive blow for them to lose Powell this month, but do they run the risk of letting him leave on a free transfer at the end of this season?

It's going to be an interesting one for sure.

Thoughts? Let us know!