Rangers cleared to sign forgotten Man Utd player after Crystal Palace rule themselves out of running

RANGERS are clear to sign former England keeper Jack Butland after Crystal Palace passed on the chance to extend his contract.

The Eagles had the option of triggering a new one-year deal with Butland — who has been on loan with Manchester United — but decided against it.

Palace already have two top keepers in Sam Johnstone and Vicente Guaita, making that department well covered and also expensive to run.

Rangers have been keen on Butland, 30, for a year but only pressed on with a deal in recent weeks.

Their initial interest faded when Allan McGregor returned to their plans.

But his belated exit left them in need of an experienced replacement.

The former Stoke shot-stopper failed to make any appearances at Palace or United this season.

Butland made nine league appearances for Palace in the league last season.

He reportedly held talks over a move to Scotland on Tuesday night – the same day Gers confirmed the capture of Dujon Sterling.

Last month we revealed how Man Utd were prepared to DOUBLE the wages offered by the Ibrox side in order to keep him at Old Trafford.

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Butland has been capped nine times by England.

Overall he has made 87 appearances in the Premier League, while making a further 161 in the Championship.