Rangers could secure Aaron Ramsey’s heir by bringing in attacking midfielder Tom Lawrence this summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 28-year-old is available on a free transfer after his contract with Derby County expired and is reportedly attracting attention from a host of clubs in the Championship alongside the Gers.

What is the latest news involving Lawrence?

West Bromwich Albion are said to be leading the race for Lawrence’s signature, with Sheffield United, Watford and Rangers also in hot pursuit, as per the Daily Mail.

The Manchester United academy graduate established himself as one of the Championship’s top performers following his arrival at Derby back in August 2017.

Lawrence has racked up 56 goals and 45 assists in 299 senior career club games, with 62 of those goal contributions coming for the Rams.

However, the 23-cap Wales international was unable to prevent Derby from being relegated to League One last term, and with the club still in financial turmoil, he is set to seek pastures new over the coming months.

What has O’Rourke said about Lawrence?

O’Rourke believes Lawrence could replace Ramsey in Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s setup rather than winger Ryan Kent, who only has 12 months remaining on his current contract.

He told GiveMeSport: “He’s slightly different to Ryan Kent, he’s not an out-and-out winger, he’s probably better suited to playing as an attacking midfielder.

“Maybe where Aaron Ramsey played last year on loan, he could maybe fill in there rather than Ryan Kent.

“But I think a number of clubs are looking at Tom Lawrence as well, so it won't be straightforward for Rangers, but I'm sure they'll be hoping they can lure him to Scotland and join Van Bronckhorst’s side for next season.”

Do Rangers need Lawrence?

The likes of Kent and Joe Aribo have been strongly linked with imminent exits from the Glasgow giants, while Ramsey has returned to Juventus following an underwhelming six-month loan spell.

And Lawrence, who is comfortable playing on the left-wing and behind a striker, could prove to be the ideal successor in Van Bronckhorst’s setup.

Rangers reached the Europa League final last season while claiming the Scottish Cup but lost their league title to bitter rivals Celtic, meaning reinforcements will be needed at the club.

Whether Lawrence, who has been described as "unbelievable", can be convinced to make the switch to Rangers over his other potential suitors remains to be seen, but the club’s supporters will surely be hoping Van Bronckhorst can get this deal over the line.