Republic of Ireland are trying to nick Rangers hit-kid Josh McPake from under Scotland’s nose.
Mailsport can reveal the FAI have made contact with the Ibrox winger about switching his international allegiances.
And they could force Scotland’s hand by calling up the 17-year-old for their Under-21 squad in September.
The Scots U21’s also have Euro qualifiers next month against San Marino and Croatia but so far McPake hasn’t been capped at U17 level.
McPake qualifies for the Republic through his Irish grandmother.
Currently, he’s fully committed to playing for Scotland but could have a decision to make if Ireland step up their interest in him.
McPake - who was wanted by the likes of Liverpool, Roma and Hoffenheim - signed a new deal in August to 2023 and is highly rated by Ibrox boss Steven Gerrard.
He’s already made his first-team debut for the club after coming off the bench against St Joseph’s in the Europa League.
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And Mailsport understands that he’s now set to go on loan for more experience - as Dundee jumped to the head of the queue for his signature.
Despite Premiership interest from St Johnstone and Ross County, the Dens Park club are now favourites to get him until January.
McPake will take in the Dark Blues’ Betfred Cup clash against Aberdeen today as gaffer James McPake tries to tie up a deal.