STUART DARROCH

Out-of-favour Rangers midfielder Thomas Buffel looks set for a return to Dutch side Feyenoord this summer.

Reports in Belgium claim the midfielder, who is a free agent at the end of the season, is wanted by his former club on a Bosman deal.

And Buffel, who saw a loan move to German side Cologne break down in the January transfer window due to financial problems, will be keen on a return to the Dutch club after struggling to make an impact on Walter Smith.

The Belgian midfielder, signed by Alex McLeish, the former Rangers manager, from Feyenoord for £2.3m in 2005, has started just one game for the Ibrox club this season, as well as four substitute appearances. Buffel admitted his frustration at the situation a number times since a knee operation last February.

There has been interest from a number of clubs in Europe, with Belgian sides Anderlecht and Bruges previously linked with the 26-year-old.

However, it is understood the player is keen on a return to his former employers.