Details emerge as Rangers look to halt star man’s January move to Leeds

Rangers are reported to have offered Ryan Kent a new deal that would earn him parity among the best-paid stars at Ibrox.

The winger has been the subject of strong interest from Leeds over the last two transfer windows. Their manager, Marcelo Bielsa, is a huge admirer of the former Liverpool player.

The 23-year-old had been a firm target for the Whites last summer, but it was Steven Gerrard’s side who won the race after he impressed during his initial loan spell.

Leeds, however, remained on his trail and saw a fresh offer – reported to be £10m – rejected this summer.

The approach led to a strong warning from Gers boss Gerrard, who was not impressed with Leeds’ offer.

“Ryan (Kent) is a player we admire very much here and we have seen him develop,” he told the official Rangers website. “He is progressing very quickly and is a player we want to keep hold off.

“We very quickly rejected an opening bid that was nowhere near his valuation.

“We want the player to stay here, as do the board. The fans love him also and Leeds will need to respect that, they need to really think hard if they want to come in again.”

Leeds, though, remain on Kent’s trail and could reportedly come back in for him in January. The window opens again in just 85 days.

Rangers, however, remain determined to keep Kent. As such, they are in talks over a new and improved deal for the winger.

Kent exit clause could be extended

Kent reportedly penned a four-year deal worth £20,000 a week when he signed from Liverpool in 2019.

However, his new contract, as claimed by Football Insider, will be worth £28,000 a week. That will earn Kent parity alongside Alfredo Morelos and Jermain Defoe as the club’s top earners.

It’s been claimed Kent has a £20m release clause in his contract. However, Rangers could even look to extend that to keep Leeds at arms length.

Kent has made 11 appearances in all competitions so far this season, scoring five goals and weighing in with five assists.

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