Rangers begin Lafferty deal talks

27 October 2011 21:17

Rangers have opened talks with Kyle Lafferty's representative about a new contract, Press Association Sport understands.

The Northern Ireland international's agent, Gerry Carlile, met with Ibrox owner Craig Whyte in London on Wednesday to discuss a new deal for the 24-year-old forward, who will enter the final year of his current contract next season.

It is understood the initial meeting was positive with more talks planned soon.

Lafferty, who was signed from Burnley for around £3.5million in 2008, has made it known he is keen to stay in Govan.

Rangers boss Ally McCoist had urged Whyte earlier in the week to secure the big striker's future by offering him a new deal.

"I'm eager to get Kyle tied down on a new contract," McCoist said.

"I'm hopeful the club can do that because you want to keep your best players - and Laff is one of them."

Source: PA