Pandza tells Gers to come and get him

With negotiations continuing between the Bosnian defender's representatives and the Ibrox hierarchy, the international says Gers are his preference despite other interest in his services around Europe.

The stopper, who is available on a free after ending his contract with Belgian club Mechelen, said: "I am hopeful we can reach an agreement.

"For me it would be great to sign. It is one of the biggest clubs and I would be proud to play for Rangers. I hope a deal can be concluded soon.

"Rangers made me an offer yesterday. Now we have put our proposal to them. My agent has told Rangers what I would like."

Pandza is playing for a place in a Bosnia squad which is on course to reach the 2014 World Cup but has already claimed he has no fears over missing out if he was to play in Scotland's third tier.

The 26-year-old has options from other clubs which could safeguard his international place but says he would rather head for Glasgow.

He admitted: "I spoke to Ally McCoist last week. We had a conversation but we didn't discuss anything concrete. I told him that my agent would speak to him.

"Although I have been contacted by other clubs in Europe my preference is to join Rangers."

Meanwhile Steven Smith has urged Rangers' young guns to grab their chance to shine this summer.

Ally McCoist's side rounded off their pre-season trip to the Highlands with a 1-0 win over Elgin on Wednesday night as Fraser Aird struck the only goal of the game just days after a Lewis Macleod double inspired the Gers to a 2-0 triumph against Brora.

But Smith said: "Fraser took his goal well and the manager has been telling him to be positive and to get at people. As soon as he gets the ball, he wants him to turn and face people because he's got the attributes to do what he did at Elgin.

"He's young so the more he plays and the more consistency he gets in his game, I think you'll see that on a more regular basis from him.

"Pre-season is a good platform for them."