Scottish gossip: Souttar, Ferguson, McTominay, Forrest, Boyle

Rangers manager Philippe Clement wants to extend the contract of John Souttar, saying a deal is “on the table” for the defender, who has 18 months to run on his current terms. (Glasgow Times), external

Swedish icon Zlatan Ibrahimovic will spearhead the efforts of AC Milan as they to try to sign Bologna midfielder Lewis Ferguson in January, despite the Scotland international signing a new contract extension just last month. (MilanLive.it via Daily Record, external)

Rangers are considering back-up options for the role of chairman after failing to reach an agreement with Malcolm Offord. (Scottish Sun), external

James Forrest says he turned down an ambitious approach from former team-mate Scott Brown to join Ayr United, with his focus on scoring in 16 consecutive seasons for Celtic to match club heroes Paul McStay and Jimmy McGrory. (Daily Record), external

Hibs winger Martin Boyle needed a bone graft from his hip to fix a hand and wrist injury reveals head coach David Gray, who is challenging the 31-year-old to win his starting place back in the face of stiff competition. (Edinburgh Evening News), external

Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna was “surprised” when opening transfer talks with Manchester United for Scott McTominay after being told the Scotland midfielder was “not an essential player” at Old Trafford. (Tuttomercatoweb, external in Italian)