Tranmere Rovers have made their first signing of the January transfer window, bringing in Josh McPake on loan from Rangers until the end of the season.

The highly-rated 20-year-old winger recently signed an extended contract at Ibrox.

McPake previously enjoyed a stint at Harrogate Town in the 2020/21 season and put in an impressive performance against Rovers at Prenton Park, scoring the opening goal.

He has also represented Scotland from U17 to U19 levels and made his professional debut for Rangers in a Europa League qualifying match.

Manager Micky Mellon said: “We’re delighted to sign Josh. We felt that we needed more competition and quality on top of what we already have.

“We need as many options as possible to try and win games and Josh brings us that. He’s a very talented lad and we’re very pleased that Rangers have allowed him to come to us.

“Building relationships with clubs like Rangers is one way we believe we can keep moving things forward.

“He’s played for Scotland at all levels except senior level and Rangers rate him very highly. He comes into a group which is building strong foundations and we want to keep adding to that and strengthening that.”

After signing on loan, McPake said: “I’m absolutely delighted to join the club. I’ve met everyone and got to know everyone so far so I’m really excited.

“It’s a massive club and the fan base was a major factor in my decision as well as the promotion push that we’re on. The club is going in the right direction so it was an easy choice.

“I’m a quick, tricky and direct winger and I just want to create, assist and score goals. I had a few choices but this promotion push is what I want for my career so I don’t think there’s a better place to come.”

Rovers currently lie fourth in League Two, but were forced to postpone their last match against Salford City due to a Covid outbreak in the first team squad.

They are next due to be in action on Saturday, against Scunthorpe United at Prenton Park.

Relegation-threatened United are now managed by former Tranmere boss Keith Hill, who will be returning to Prenton Park for the first time since he was sacked by the club on the eve of the promotion play-off matches last season.