James Tavernier could join former Rangers star as pre-contract deal eyed
James Tavernier may be set to link up with a former Rangers teammate when his contract expires.
Tavernier‘s deal at Ibrox expires at the end of the season, and there has been no progress on a new contract at the moment.
The veteran has seen his time on the pitch reduced under Danny Rohl, and may choose to seek a new adventure, rather than staying in Govan.
The former Bristol City man has been a reliable servant for the Gers, making 550 appearances, but it may be the right time for all parties to move on.
Which former Rangers teammate could Tavernier link up with?
Cyriel Dessers left Rangers and joined Panathinaikos in the summer, and Tavernier could reunite with the Nigerian in Greece.
A report from Daily Mail on 15 January claims that the Greek side managed by Rafael Benitez are targeting the Gers skipper.
It states that they are weighing up a pre-contract offer for the 34-year-old defender, with just six months left on his Ibrox deal.
Why would Rangers let Tavernier leave – he’s their top goalscorer?
Tavernier is the Light Blues’ top goalscorer in the Scottish Premiership with five goals this season, but they still might let him leave.
He has notched 138 goals and 146 assists since joining the Bears, a truly remarkable attacking contribution from a right-back.
- Tavernier has played 37 times this season
- He has scored eight goals and assisted four strikes
- The defender has played 2,707 minutes in this campaign
However, his overall performances have not been at his usual level, and he is clearly coming to the end at the top level.
He is likely on a high wage in Govan, and if they could get an alternative option for a much cheaper salary, it makes sense.
Dujon Sterling has also looked fantastic since he returned from injury, and he may be the natural successor to the Newcastle academy man.
If Rohl decides that is the case, Tavernier may well be done, and with no progress on a new deal, he may decide he wants to join Dessers in Athens.
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