Ex-Rangers captain Steven Davis poised to join Southampton?

Southampton have reportedly stepped up their attempts to sign former Rangers captain Steven Davis after the midfielder walked out on the financially stricken club.

The newly-promoted Premier League side were speculated to be pondering a £2m bid for the 27-year-old before Davis rejected the transfer of his contract to Charles Green's newco at Ibrox.

Now that the playmaker is effectively a free agent, the Saints have become the favourites to sign the former Gers skipper, according to the Daily Star.

Meanwhile, reports have claimed that Southampton boss Nigel Adkins has had a £6m bid for goalkeeper Jack Butland rebuffed from Birmingham City.