HIBERNIAN are in pole position to beat off competition from England and abroad to clinch a move for Rangers midfielder Ross McCrorie.

Herald and Times Sport understands the 22-year-old is one of the key targets for boss Jack Ross this summer and Hibs are keen to strike a deal.

McCrorie spent last season on loan at Portsmouth as Kenny Jackett’s side missed out on promotion to the Championship and a return to Fratton Park is one option open this term.

Steven Gerrard is keen to retain McCrorie as part of his Rangers squad but the Ibrox utility man is not short of suitors as clubs down south and on the continent monitor his situation with his boyhood heroes.

McCrorie still has two years to run on his Light Blues contract and Hibs may have to settle for a loan move if they are unable to agree terms to take him to Easter Road on a permanent basis.