Steven Gerrard's contacts could give Rangers the edge in signing talented young prospects, amid links with Wigan Athletic's James Carragher.

Carragher - the son of Liverpool legend Jamie - looks set to leave Wigan for nothing this summer, with his contract set to expire and his performances catching the eye this season.

Everton, who are said to be in talks with Carragher, could face competition from an old foe, as according to GIVEMESPORT, Steven Gerrard is keen to lure Carragher to Rangers on a free transfer this summer.

Not only would the lure of playing for the SPFL Champions be huge for Carragher, but playing under a manager who he is very close to due to his father's connections would also be massive.

According to Paul Robinson, Gerrard's name and connections could give Rangers the upper hand on Everton in pursuit of the Wigan Athletic man.

He told Football Insider: "The connections Steven has throughout football will stand him in good stead in any transfer market.

"That’s part of what Steven is doing up there. He’s not just signing players for the now, he’s signing them for the future as well.

"He’s putting the building blocks in place so Rangers stay where they are for a long time.

“His contacts will always give him the option on some good young players. Whether it be Jamie Carragher or someone else."

Carragher is yet to make a first-team bow for Wigan, but has been a regular in the FA Youth Cup this season.

The Verdict

I think it's inevitable that Rangers will sign Carragher, and you have to wonder how much of that would be down to Steven and Jamie's relationship.

Jamie will obviously want the best for his son, though, and he shouldn't move to Rangers just because it's Steven Gerrard in charge.

There needs to be a long-term plan for James Carragher, and if Rangers can detail that for him, then a move to Ibrox could be excellent for him.