Derek McInnes has admitted John Souttar is still not safe from the Ibrox axe, with the Rangers defender told he is surplus to requirements this term and free to find a new club.
The 29-year-old was a key man for the club last season, acting as former captain James Tavernier's deputy before travelling to the World Cup with Scotland. But he has been told his long-term future would be best served elsewhere.
Talks ongoing despite deadline
It appeared Souttar would have to stick around in Glasgow until January at least after last week's transfer deadline passed without a deal. However, McInnes confirmed the defender, who only signed a new Gers deal in February, remains in talks with interested suitors elsewhere.
McInnes said: “I think he still can [play a part] but the likelihood is that…John has been told that his long-term future would be best served elsewhere.
“He still has good opportunities to move. There’s a few windows still open in Europe and there is a few things looking possible for John.
“I don’t want to speculate too much but I think there are one or two things he’s quite keen on getting a bit of traction.
“Probably for him to go get regular football somewhere else might be the best option for him.
“But if something doesn’t materialise then of course we’ll honour the contract and he’ll come back into things.”
Contract honoured if no move
If no deal is agreed, Rangers will honour Souttar's contract and he will return to the first-team fold. The defender's situation remains fluid as European windows stay open, offering a potential quick-fire exit before January.
