James Tavernier: 'Huge' Rangers update after Clement in talks with board - sources
Philippe Clement doesn’t want to lose Rangers captain James Tavernier this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
The Gers manager has told the board a “huge” overhaul is needed of a playing squad that has now missed out on the Scottish Premiership title to Celtic.
Clement believes there is only a handful of must-keep players in the senior ranks, with the Belgian putting Tavernier in that category despite the Light Blues fans being split on whether he should stay.
Finances are likely to dictate whether the 32-year-old is sold this summer, while the offers he receives will also play a part after he’s been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia for several months.
Saudi side Al-Ettifaq, who are managed by Steven Gerrard, have held a long-term interest in the Englishman.
The English right-back’s current deal is due to expire in 2026.
James Tavernier could stay at Rangers despite fans' criticism
Tavernier has faced criticism in recent weeks after Rangers’ title hopes faded following some indifferent form.
But the right-back has continued to break records in a Light Blues shirt this season after becoming British football’s highest-scoring defender in March.
Football Insider revealed last month Rangers would be looking for a fee in the region of £5million to let their skipper leave this summer.
Clement is keen to ensure Tavernier doesn’t link up with his former Gers boss despite revealing he is planning a “big” rebuild at Ibrox ahead of the transfer window reopening in a matter of weeks.
John Lundstram, Borna Barisic, Kemar Roofe, Ryan Jack, Leon Balogun and John McLaughlin are all out of contract this summer and could be set to part ways with the club.
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