Rangers are attempting to broker a move to bring Joleon Lescott to Ibrox after the defender emerged as Mark Warburton's number one target to bolster the club's backline.

The 34-year-old is yet to feature for Aston Villa this season under new boss Roberto Di Matteo following the club's relegation from the English Premier League and it's understood the club would be happy to offload the player.

Lescott has a year remaining on Villa deal and if he can reach an agreement with the English Championship side over an early termination then it could pave the way for a move to Glasgow. Other English sides remain interested in securing Lescott's services.

Rangers are keen to strengthen their defence and have spoken to a number of defensive targets this summer. Adrian Mariappa held discussions while Oguchi Onyewu joined the club for their pre-season training camp in America before Clint Hill signed a one-year deal.

Philippe Senderos joined the Light Blues for a week's trial as he bids to win a deal.

Lescott has played for Wolves, Everton, Manchester City and West Brom over the course of his career.

The centre back has made 26 appearances for England and played for his country at Euro 2012.