‘It comes as a surprise’ – O’Rourke drops James Tavernier transfer update after Rangers latest
James Tavernier’s age is the biggest sticking point when it comes to whether he will sign a new contract at Rangers before this summer.
Tavernier is a Rangers legend for his consistently standout performances over the last 11 years since a 2015 move from Newcastle.
The 34-year-old has scored 143 goals in 555 appearances for the club, while holding the captaincy since 2018, but he could leave Ibrox this summer upon the expiration of his contract.
He is yet to sign a new deal as both parties mull over terms, and an exit could happen, as he has not been a regular under Danny Rohl in the last few months.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Tavernier’s age and squad status could hinder him in penning a new deal and staying at Rangers until he retires.
James Tavernier could leave Rangers this summer
Tavernier displayed his quality with a first-half hat-trick in the Gers’ 8-0 thrashing of Queen’s Park in the Scottish Cup last weekend.
He remains a key part of Rohl’s plans as it stands, but it is unclear whether that will continue to be the case beyond this summer.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “We all know that his contract expires at the end of the season and there has been no breakthrough on a potential new deal for him as well, which does come as bit of a surprise.
“He’s the club’s top scorer, again, which is remarkable for a defender. The only question mark would probably be over his age. He’s 34 now, not getting any younger.
“I still think he has got a part to play for Rangers, as he’s proven this season. He might not play every game going forward because of that (his age).
“So it depends on Tavernier, if he wants to stay there and become a potential squad player at Ibrox, if Rangers do bring in a new right back.”
Rangers could move to sign Tawanda Maswanhise this summer
While Tavernier could be on his way out, Motherwell striker Maswanhise may well arrive at Ibrox ahead of next season.
The Zimbabwe international is the leading scorer in the Premiership so far this term, with 13 goals in 22 matches, while he has netted another five in eight cup games.
Rangers were closely linked with Maswanhise throughout the January window, but they instead moved to sign Ryan Naderi from Hansa Rostock.
He is expected to remain on their radar ahead of the summer, but the Gers will also face competition from Celtic to land his services.
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