Links between Rangers and Damian Garcia have intensified after the manager of his current club called his 'desire' into question.

Last week, the Ibrox club was credited with an interest in the midfielder, 20, from Uruguay. 

He currently plays in the top flight of his homeland for Penarol but is out of contract at the end of the year.

It's believed Penarol wants to keep hold of their top talent until then, however, Garcia is keen to move to Europe sooner rather than later.

He's made 17 appearances so far this term in his homeland - and judging by boss Diego Aguirre's recent comments, it remains to be seen how many more he'll rack up.

Talks over a new deal stalled, and the player's agent, Edgardo Lasalvia, has gone public to claim that Garcia's weekly wage barely covers his rent as tensions escalate with Penarol.

Aguirre told Uruguayan outlet Fenfield: “The squad is going to be this, with some modifications. I am very happy with them, they are the ones who have achieved all this.

"Some players may come, but the most important ones are those who are here."

Asked about Garcia's situation specifically, he responded: “Players of his stature are always important, but he must have the desire to stay. That can be decisive."

Philippe Clement has already dipped into the South American market by signing Jefte from Brazil. 

Columbian winger Oscar Cortes has agreed to join a season-long loan from Lens too, with Rangers obligated to buy him next summer.

Thomas Galdames has been heavily linked with a switch to Glasgow too.

READ MORE: Rangers transfer news & rumours before the transfer window

Meanwhile, Rangers are set to sign highly-rated Hearts academy prospect Alfie Hutchison.

The 15-year-old forward has decided to join the Ibrox club from the Jambos.