ALAN HUTTON reckons Steven Gerrard could "pull the trigger" early to try and tie down Blackburn midfielder Joe Rothwell on a January deal.

Reports this week suggested that Rangers are keen to land the Englishman to bolster their midfield options.

The Ibrox outfit could agree a pre-contract agreement with Rothwell ahead of the January window.

Rothwell, 26, was linked with Premier League outfit Brentford, but they ended up looking elsewhere for midfield cover.

Hutton, who was working for Rangers TV over the weekend, believes his former club could look to do a deal in the near future.

He told Football Insider: “He was obviously one of the standout performers last season at Blackburn.

“It doesn’t surprise me that they’re keeping an eye on him. They could go and try and pull the trigger early doors before January to try and get something over the line before any other team comes in…

“I know there will obviously be more than Rangers that are keeping an eye on his situation. It’s the way Rangers are, the way Steven Gerrard is.

“He never wants to stand still, he always wants to move forward. Get the next player through the door that can enhance the team he’s already got.

“At a big club, there’s always going to be competition for places. That’s just the way it is and every player knows that.

“It’s yet another new face but hopefully it’s not just about numbers, it’s about adding quality.”