Norwich City could face competition from the continent if their interest in Glasgow Rangers defender Ian Murray is serious. Reports suggest Canaries boss Peter Grant is preparing to make loan raids on both the Glasgow giants - with Celtic's young defender Darren O'Dea also on his hit list.

Norwich City could face competition from the continent if their interest in Glasgow Rangers defender Ian Murray is serious.

Reports suggest Canaries boss Peter Grant is preparing to make loan raids on both the Glasgow giants - with Celtic's young defender Darren O'Dea also on his hit list.

Murray is said to be a target for German side Hertha Berlin - and City's Championship rivals Sheffield Wednesday - who are conscious of the fact that the 26-year-old Scottish international has not featured for Rangers this season.

Gers boss Walter Smith has paved the way for Murray - who is in the final year of a three-year contract - to move on before the transfer window closes, although it is believed they have not received a formal offer from Carrow Road.

“I don't know if we'll get any money in before August 31,” said Smith. “We're in a situation where one or two are surplus to requirements. But whether they go or not is down to other clubs.”

Former Hibs captain Murray is a versatile player who can play at left-back, centre-back or midfield, while the Celtic target, O'Dea, is more of a specialist defender - and both would appear to suit Grant's requirements as he seeks to strengthen defence and left midfield.

Republic of Ireland Under-21 international defender O'Dea made his Celtic debut last September but was rewarded for some quality performances in March when he signed a new three-year contract which runs until the end of the 2010 season, with the Bhoys having the option of a further year after that.

O'Dea was in the Republic under-21s side for last night's friendly international against Germany in Furth.