Rangers are facing up to the prospect of a huge summer as allowing Alfredo Morelos, Ryan Kent and Joe Aribo to run down their Ibrox contracts is 'the last thing the Gers want', according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The reigning Scottish Premiership champions are on the brink of handing the title over to arch-rivals Celtic and, in a further blow, Rangers could see three of their key men depart in the coming months.

What's the latest news involving Morelos, Kent and Aribo?

Giovanni van Bronckhorst was appointed as Rangers' manager last November and, ahead of his first full season at the helm, he could find it difficult to hold onto Morelos, Kent and Aribo.

Morelos, who will not feature again before the end of the season after undergoing surgery on his thigh, is set to enter the final 12 months of his £33,000-per-week contract.

Similarly, Kent's £18,000-per-week agreement and the £14,000-per-week deal Aribo is tied down to will expire on May 31, 2023.

While Transfermarkt values Morelos, Kent and Aribo at £11.7million, £12.6million and £9million respectively, Rangers could see the trio walk away for free at the end of next season if they fail to agree fresh terms.

Morelos, Kent and Aribo are not the only Gers stars nearing the end of their respective contracts as the likes of Connor Goldson and Steven Davis appear to be on their way out of Ibrox at the season's climax.

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What has Pete O'Rourke said about the trio?

O'Rourke believes Rangers will do everything in their power to avoid allowing Morelos, Kent and Aribo to become free agents next summer.

The journalist feels it could even result in the Gers looking to cash-in on the trio when the transfer window reopens.

O'Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: "The last thing Rangers want to do is see these three players run down their contracts and potentially leave on free transfers because that would cost the club a lot of money as well.

"There is a big summer ahead for the Rangers recruitment team and Giovanni van Bronckhorst.

"Ideally, they would love to keep hold of these players but, if they're not going to sign new deals, you've got no choice but to try and listen to offers for them."

How have Morelos, Kent and Aribo performed for Rangers?

There is no doubting that Morelos has been a major threat in the attacking third of the pitch, with the 25-year-old finding the back of the net 113 times and laying on 51 assists in 224 Rangers appearances.

Kent has also proved to be a menace for opponents by chalking up 77 goal contributions, emphasising why van Bronckhorst will be eager to see the winger commit his long-term future to the club.

Aribo has contributed heavily since heading north of the border from Charlton Athletic, with him scoring 25 goals and registering as many assists in 145 outings.