Football Insider has been informed by insiders that Rangers are hesitant to let go of captain James Tavernier this summer due to rumours of interest from Al-Ettifaq, a Saudi Arabian team.
Following reports of interest last year, the 32-year-old has once again been linked to a move to the Saudi Pro League (HITC, March 14). (2023).
Al-Ettifaq and other PiF-owned teams are reportedly interested in the seasoned full-back.
Former Rangers manager Steven Gerrard oversees Al-Ettifaq, and Mark Allen, a former director of football for the Gators, works for the team as well.
However, it’s thought that the Ibrox team will stop at nothing to retain Tavernier for the 2024–2025 season.
Rangers, following Gerrard’s swoop, are desperate to hold onto Tavernier.
Any approach from Saudi Arabia, according to sources, is expected to include a “huge” contract offer for the 32-year-old.
However, Rangers are hesitant to sell since they believe Tavernier is essential to their ambitions of contending in the Champions League the next season, an informed source has told Football Insider.
If the Glasgow giants win the Scottish Premiership, they will automatically advance to the league phase; if not, they will have to play in the qualifying rounds.
Tavernier will seek a high fee because his contract is set to expire in May 2026.
In 47 appearances across all competitions thus far in the 2023–24 campaign, he has managed 10 assists and 21 goals.
The Bradford native has made 449 appearances overall for Rangers, scoring 122 goals and taking home one league championship.
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