Rangers confirm interest in Israel striker Tomer Hemed

(GETTY IMAGES)

Rangers boss Ally McCoist hopes to sign Israel striker Tomer Hemed by the end of the week.

The 24-year-old is out of contract at Maccabi Haifa and looks set to become McCoist's first signing.

"It's close," McCoist told The Sun. "We met and spoke with his representatives [yesterday]. The new owner was present and we're now ready to take it further.

"We're looking to have something done by the end of the week."

McCoist is also looking at midfielder Neil Danns, who is out of contract at Crystal Palace, but is being frustrated in his attempts to sign former Gers defender Carlos Cuellar because of the managerial uncertainty at Aston Villa.

He said: "As regards Neil, Andrew [Dickson, Rangers director of football administration] has spoken to his representative and we're keen, very keen.

"That's one I am pursuing further as well. He's a player we are keen on."

He added: "The situation at Aston Villa makes it difficult with regards to Carlos."