Todd Cantwell could be given an Ibrox escape route by Blackburn Rovers after the Championship side opened initial discussions over a move for the wantaway midfielder.

The Rangers Review understands that Rovers are keen on a switch for Cantwell before the close of the transfer window on Friday evening. As it stands, the option of a loan until the end of the season or a permanent switch are still on the table as Cantwell considers his situation in the coming days.

Read more: Check all the Rangers transfer news & rumours throughout the transfer window

The Englishman informed boss Philippe Clement of his desire to leave Ibrox after heart-to-heart talks several weeks ago. Cantwell joined Rangers on their pre-season tour to Holland but has not featured in any matchday squads this term and, unlike fellow outcast Ianis Hagi, has not been playing for the B Team in recent weeks.

“Yes, but I can only know when it's clear,” Clement said when asked about the futures of Cantwell and Hagi at his press conference on Friday. “I told you guys already weeks ago, there's been a clear talk with Hagi about that before the pre-season started. Todd made his own opinion about things, why he don't want to stay in Scotland. And I don't speak only about Rangers, it's more Scotland. Why he wanted to leave. So those are decisions made for me. And it's seeing what's a good deal for them, but also for the club. And I will hear when it's the case. Until now it was not the case, apparently.”

Rovers boss John Eustace will look to guide his side into third round of the EFL Cup when they host Blackpool this evening. His attentions will then turn to the final days of business and a move to strength his squad and Cantwell will be on his wanted list before the weekend. Rangers need to offload Cantwell before Clement can go back into the market to recruit another playmaker to lead the bid for domestic silverware this term.

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The Rangers Review understands that Eustace was previously keen on a move for winger Rabbi Matondo. Rovers made an enquiry about the Welshman earlier this summer but he now looks set to remain at Ibrox after catching the eye in the win over Ross County on Saturday.

Fellow forward Scott Wright will be allowed to leave Ibrox, however. Birmingham City are believed to be keen on a move for Wright after clinching the loan signing of defender Ben Davies over the weekend. Rangers will also allow youngsters Adam Devine, Leon King and Alex Lowry to move on in the coming days.

The other major exit talks will involve Ianis Hagi. The Romanian has rejected a return to his homeland with Rapid Bucharest and Rangers are still working on a deal to see him leave the club after Clement informed him he was not part of his plans this term.