‘Rangers set for major James Tavernier decision as Bournemouth deal beckons’
Rangers face a key decision over James Tavernier’s future as new boss Russell Martin looks to reshape his squad at Ibrox.
Tavernier has been an exceptional servant for the Bears over the years, scoring 130 goals in over 500 appearances since joining from Wigan Athletic back in 2015.
He remained a strong asset for Rangers last season, notching five goals and 13 assists, even though the Ibrox giants suffered a disappointing campaign, failing to clinch silverware.
Martin is now tasked with restoring the Gers’ glory days and must decide whether to include the long-serving defender in his plans.
Rangers face key Tavernier call as Martin eyes Bournemouth swoop
Martin is keen to strengthen Rangers this summer, but Football Insider have exclusively revealed that West Ham and Everton are interested in Hamza Igamane.
Meanwhile, Sky Sports’ Mark McAdam revealed via X: “Rangers have made contact with Bournemouth over a deal for defender Max Aarons.
“It is understood the Ibrox club want to take the 25-year-old on loan, following his spell at Valencia for the second half of last season.
“Bournemouth are believed to favour a permanent exit.”
If Rangers sign Aarons this summer, that would leave Martin with the former Norwich City man alongside Tavernier and Dujon Sterling as contenders for the right-back spot.
Meanwhile, after enduring a lack of game time at both Bournemouth and Valencia last season, Aarons will be keen to enjoy regular minutes at Ibrox, regardless of whether he joins on loan or permanently.
But acquiring a right-back who is capable of starting week in, week out in the Scottish Premiership could spell the end of Tavernier’s 10-year stint at Rangers.
Tavernier’s experience could be vital for Martin
Martin previously demonstrated his ability to establish a winning culture when he steered Southampton to promotion from the Championship in 2024 via a playoff final victory over Leeds United.
| James Tavernier stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 53 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 13 |
However, the former Swansea City boss struggled to adjust to the demands of the Premier League and played a major role in the Saints’ relegation back to the second tier despite facing the sack in December.
His Premier League exploits at Southampton may leave some Rangers supporters fearful that Martin is not the right man to help the Ibrox giants close the gap to the reigning Scottish Premiership champions and bitter rivals Celtic.
But if Martin opts to retain the services of Tavernier, even if he signs Aarons, the 33-year-old’s presence could help the ex-Southampton manager settle into life at Ibrox.
The attack-minded fullback has helped the Gers win the Championship, Premiership, League Cup, and Scottish Cup since moving to Glasgow a decade ago.
Meanwhile, former FIFA referee Keith Hackett told Ibrox News that Rangers could be facing games behind closed doors next season, thanks to supporters’ behaviour.