Tavernier Exclusive: ‘Huge’ Rangers update after board talks

Tavernier Exclusive: ‘Huge’ Rangers update after board talks

Football Insider has learned that Philippe Clement does not want to lose Rangers captain James Tavernier this summer.

The Gers manager has advised the board that a “huge” change is required for a playing squad that is destined to lose the Scottish Premiership title to Celtic.

Clement feels there are just a few must-keep players in the senior ranks,

and the Belgian includes Tavernier in that group despite Light Blues fans being divided on whether he should stay.

Finances are expected to influence whether the 32-year-old is sold this summer,

although the offers he receives will also play a role, since he has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia for months.

Steven Gerrard-managed Saudi club Al-Ettifaq has long been interested in the Englishman.

The English right-back’s current contract is set to end in 2026.

Despite criticism from fans, James Tavernier could stay with the Rangers

Tavernier has come under fire in recent weeks as Rangers’ title ambitions have diminished due to poor performance.

The Gers are three points behind Celtic in the league, with their Old Firm opponents needing only one point to claim the Cup.

However, Tavernier has continued to set records in a Light Blues shirt this season,

having become British football’s highest-scoring defender in March.

Last month, Football Insider revealed Rangers will be looking for a sum in the region of £5 million to let their skipper leave  this summer.

Clement is keen to ensure Tavernier does not reunite with his former Gers boss,

despite disclosing plans for a “big” rebuild at Ibrox before the transfer window reopens in a few weeks.

John Lundstram, Borna Barisic, Kemar Roofe, Ryan Jack, Leon Balogun, and John McLaughlin are all out of contracts this summer and could leave the club.

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