ROSS WILSON has opened up on the Rangers respect involved in contract negotiations to extend Connor Goldson's Ibrox stay.

The central defender agreed a new four-year to remain a Rangers player despite serious speculation he would leave this summer.

Goldson's deal was set to expire shortly with Premier League side Nottingham Forest keen on a free transfer move for the 29-year-old.

But Rangers confirmed this afternoon that Goldson had committed his future to the club penning the new long-term deal.

Speculation had mounted over Goldson's future as the time remaining on his previous deal began to dwindle, but sporting director Wilson insists Rangers were happy to wait on a decision and offer Goldson the respect to take time out and think about his future.

Wilson revealed: “Connor is an important player in our group and we are delighted that following all of our discussions, he has decided to commit his long-term future to Rangers.

"We have a strong relationship with Connor and we were always aware that this decision was a really important one for Connor and his young family, and we were prepared to respect the time for him to make the right decision for all concerned."

Goldson's new deal comes after Steven Davis and Scott Arfield both penned contract extensions and John Souttar's pre-contract move was officially confirmed.

Now, Wilson is looking forward to seeing Souttar and Goldson link up in defence as he insisted the club now boasts a "strong defensive unit".

He added: “I know how strong his feeling is for Rangers and we look forward to continuing the journey with him. With Connor committing his future and John Souttar also officially joining Rangers today we have assembled a strong defensive unit.”