By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

2nd May, 2023 | 12:03pm

Sources: Rangers and Celtic in two-way race to sign Liverpool goalscorer Leighton Clarkson

Rangers and Celtic are ready to battle Aberdeen for the signature of Liverpool loanee Leighton Clarkson this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

The 21-year-old is currently shining on a season-long loan at Aberdeen and the Dons are determined to make the move permanent in the off-season.

Clarkson’s impressive performances in Scotland have alerted Old Firm rivals Rangers and Celtic, with the player catching the eye when coming up against the Glasgow giants this season.

The former England U20 international has scored five goals and provided eight assists in 33 games in all competitions so far this season for Aberdeen.

He has been integral in their push for a third-place finish in the Scottish Premiership.

Rangers boss Michael Beale is a big admirer of Clarkson having worked with him during his time at Liverpool.

Meanwhile, Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou is monitoring the midfielder’s situation at Liverpool as he plans to bolster his midfield options for next season.

Clarkson, who joined the Liverpool academy aged six, is out of contract at Anfield in June 2024.

He has previously gone public with his desire to break back into the senior Reds side after his success away on loan.

But both Rangers and Celtic are now interested in giving the midfielder the opportunity to play regular Champions League football in the coming seasons.

He turned out three times for Jurgen Klopp’s side in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons – including in a start against FC Midtjylland in the Champions League.

The Lancashire-born ace can play in several midfield roles – including in a number ten role and in holding midfield.

Clarkson was loaned to Championship Blackburn last season but was recalled in January 2022 after making just seven appearances.

In other news, Rangers make move to sign Aston Villa sensation.