Gers in for Metz star.

Rangers boss Walter Smith is stepping up his bid to land pounds 4 million Metz midfielder Robert Pires - the man the French call the new Michel Platini.

Pires tops a list of targets as Smith gets set to rebuild his side this summer.

Roma's Swedish midfielder Jonas Thern already looks a CERT to join Rangers - as MailSport exclusively revealed last week.

Pires was first singled out by Kenny Dalglish during his brief spell as Gers' talent-spotter.

He watched the 23-year-old in action against Newcastle in the UEFA Cup and gave him rave reviews.

And Pires has confessed that the success of his countrymen in British football has whetted his appetite for a move.

He said: "I've seen what David Ginola has achieved at Newcastle and how Eric Cantona has helped Manchester United to two titles.

"Playing in Scotland would be a challenge but I would relish it."

Meanwhile, crocked midfield ace Paul Gascoigne has pledged his future to the Ibrox club.

Gazza, linked with several Premiership outfits, insisted: "As far as I'm concerned my future is with Rangers.

"I'm aware of rumours linking me with English clubs but I haven't spoken to any of them."

Gascoigne has had his damaged ankle plastered again in a bid to beat the crock for the Old Firm clash on March 16.