Rangers chances remain possible as transfer still intact

Rangers are reluctant to sell captain James Tavernier this summer amid reported interest from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq, sources have told Football Insider.

The 32-year-old has been linked (as per HITC, 14 March) with a move to the Saudi Pro League once again after reported interest last year (2023).

It has been claimed that Al-Ettifaq and other PiF-owned clubs are interested in the veteran full-back.

Al-Ettifaq are managed by former Rangers boss Steven Gerrard and ex-Gers director of football Mark Allen is also employed at the club.

Nevertheless, it is believed the Ibrox club are desperate to keep Tavernier at the club into the 2024-25 campaign.

Rangers desperate to keep Tavernier as Gerrard swoop reported

Sources say any approach from Saudi Arabia will likely come with a “huge” contract offer for the 32-year-old.

But a well-placed source has told Football Insider that Rangers are reluctant to sell as they see Tavernier as crucial to their chances of competing in the Champions League next term.

The Glasgow giants can qualify directly to the league phase by winning the Scottish Premiership, or will otherwise need to enter in the qualifying rounds.

Tavernier is under contract until May 2026 and will thus command a huge fee.

He has managed 21 goals and 10 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions so far in the 2023-24 campaign.

The Bradford-born ace has made 449 total appearances for Rangers – notching 122 goals and winning one league title.