RAFA’S £5M BID FOR KID PATTERSON

EVERTON have made a £5million bid for Rangers defender Nathan Patterson.

Toffees boss Rafael Benitez is keen to strengthen his options at right-back and sees Patterson as a perfect choice.

The 19-year-old, who won a call-up for Scotland’s squad in the Euros, has two senior caps and is regarded as a big emerging talent.

Glasgow-born Patterson (right) is also highly regarded at Rangers – but he has fierce competition with Gers captain James Tavernier at right-back.

Everton believe they may be able to get their man and are pushing hard in this window.

Seamus Coleman, 32, is a legend at Goodison Park but the Blues want competition and a young talent who could become the long-term first choice.

It now remains to be seen whether Rangers decide to try and keep Patterson in the face of Everton’s strong interest or sell, with Tavernier still first pick.

Former Rangers full-back Alan Hutton recently said: “I’ve watched Patterson quite closely and I really like what I see, especially when he got thrown in at the deep end in the European games.

“He handled himself so well for a young lad of 19. I’m looking forward to seeing how it develops.

“It’s going to be a battle between him and Tavernier. Patterson has the tools to become a top player for Rangers. There’s also a space he can fill for Scotland but he needs to be playing at club level first.

“But if Patterson can break into the Rangers team, or maybe even share the load with Tavernier, there’s an opportunity to get into the Scotland team and be there for as long as he wants it.”