Barton in talks over Holt deal as O’Halloran heads Down Under

JOEY BARTON wants a reunion with former Rangers team-mate Jason Holt at Fleetwood Town. The controversial ex-Ibrox midfielder has targeted Holt as one of his first signings since taking over as manager at the English League One club. Talks were ongoing last night after the 25-year-old was left out of the Ibrox party that headed to Spain for a ten-day training camp. However, if the move to Fleetwood doesn’t come to fruition, Holt could fly out later this week to link up with Steven Gerrard’s squad. Fabio Cardoso, Eduardo Herrera, Harry Forrester and Lee Wallace were also left behind as Gerrard steps up preparations for his debut season in charge. Gerrard has opened the door for Wallace — currently injured — to have a future at Rangers once he has resolved his disciplinary dispute with the club. However, speaking on Friday, the Ibrox manager said he would take the advice of his medical team on whether the leftback should make the trip. The 30-yearold hasn’t played a first-team game since last September because of recurring fitness issues. New signings Nikola Katic, Connor Goldson and Ovie Ejaria will join up with the group in Spain. Meanwhile, Michael O’Halloran has exited Rangers to join Melbourne City on a two-year deal. The winger had no future at Ibrox and has opted to make the switch to the A-League. ‘I’m coming with high hopes to play my part in a team that I feel are really going places,’ said O’Halloran. ‘I’m really looking forward to getting in, working hard and training. I’m here to improve the team, and to play my part to try and win the league, and also to win the Asian Champions League.’