In an exclusive interview with Record Sport, the full-back discusses the possibility of staying at Ibrox on a permanent basis

James Penrice says he wants to be a Rangers player for the next five years.

The Ibrox star is currently on loan from Greek outfit AEK Athens until the end of the season. But Record Sport revealed last month the club has until next summer to trigger a buy option clause for the 27-year-old at a cut-price fee of just £800,000.

It seems certain that Rangers gaffer Derek McInnes will sanction the permanent move for Penrice. And the full-back, who has become a fans’ favourite at Ibrox, insists he’s desperate to stay in Glasgow. The former Hearts man is now one of the leaders in McInnes’ dressing-room with Gers trying to mount a Premiership title challenge.

He was also pivotal in their two recent Old Firm victories over Celtic in the league and Premier Sports Cup.

Penrice knows his future is out of his hands right now. But the Rangers defender - who has also played in midfield for McInnes - says he sees himself being at the club for the long-term.

In an exclusive interview with Record Sport, Penrice said: “If you’re asking me if I see myself staying here, I’d say probably, aye. If I had the choice, I’d stay. But ultimately, it won’t be up to me. There’s an option in the deal and everything has been well documented.

“For me, I’d love to sign it. But there are logistics and reasons why it might happen or might not happen. Those things have to be dealt with in the future and it will be up to my agent and the club to come to an agreement. We’ll see what happens. But if you’re asking me right now - I’d love to be here for the next four or five years and be a Rangers player. I’d love to settle here.”

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