Norwich City's Todd Cantwell is a player that Rangers boss Michael Beale admires, but he refused to be drawn on speculation linking him with a move to Ibrox. 

The 24-year-old was left out of the Canaries squad that were beaten 1-0 by Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup third round on Sunday amid reports that Scottish giants Rangers are pushing to sign him this month. 

Cantwell is out of contract this summer and, as of January 1, is now free to sign a pre-contractual agreement with clubs outside of England. 

Despite making 18 Championship appearances this season, Cantwell has only started on nine occasions and hasn't played a minute of football since City's league campaign resumed after the World Cup break last month. 

A departure now seems likely, with it being understood that Norwich would be open to a sale this month if the right deal presented itself. 

Beale, when asked about links to Cantwell and Everton's Tom Davies, praised the City academy graduate but wouldn't be drawn on any potential interest. 

"No names but I think they are both good players to be fair. Todd was an excellent player when he was young and playing against my Liverpool Under 23s," Beale told Clyde 1 Superscoreboard.

“I thought he would go on and have a fantastic career. He had that at the start and he is maybe just looking for a move to re-ignite it but I think he is a fantastic player at a good age. And Tom Davies, he used to kick my Liverpool Under 23s team all around the place.

“There’s a bit of John Lundstram about him. I’m not confirming anything with those two. But there’s a lot of players we are speaking to at the moment.”

Beale is searching for reinforcements to boost competition in Rangers squad, but has a specific requirement for any new recruits. 

Eastern Daily Press: Rangers boss Michael Beale has been addressing speculation surrounding a potential move for Todd Cantwell.Rangers boss Michael Beale has been addressing speculation surrounding a potential move for Todd Cantwell. (Image: PA Images)

 “I have to be excited about working with someone and the journey they are going on. I have to feel that they are someone who can come to Ibrox in front of 52,000 and really will grow and not shrink.

“That is the biggest question I have when I sit in front of a player – are they going to shrink at Ibrox or grow. We need growers and people who are going to come in in the next two or three years and help us win trophies and do well in Europe.

“That is the most important thing now. If I was to rush it and get it wrong, you’ll all condemn me. I hope you will be excited as I am about the two or three additions we are hoping to do.”