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James Tavernier moves closer to Rangers exit as Luca Stephenson impresses at Ibrox

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Credit: Imago Wed 8 April 2026 7:30, UK James Tavernier looks even more likely to leave Rangers at the end of his contract this summer as they line up a move to sign Liverpool right-back Luca Stephenson.Tavernier is a Rangers hero but could well leave Ibrox this summer as he nears the final stages of his current contract.The 34-year-old has made over 560 appearances for the Gers in the last 11 years, but has struggled for consistent game time this season, with just 22 starts made in the Premiership.It looks as if Danny Rohl is planning for his exit, with Rangers plotting a move to sign Liverpool youngster Stephenson after his impressive loan spell at Dundee United ends.Stephenson was already a part of Rangers’ transfer plans before last weekend, but has moved closer to joining the Glasgow giants after he shone against them at Ibrox. 🔄 Rangers Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Ibrox boardroom. VISIT THE RANGERS TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Luca Stephenson would surely be James Tavernier’s replacement at RangersSources have told Football Insider that talks between Rangers and Tavernier have stalled over a new contract and he is debating whether to walk away from the club this summer.The veteran right-back played just three minutes off the bench in their recent 4-2 win over Dundee United as Dujon Sterling started ahead of him, while Stephenson shone for the visitors.Appearances29Goals5Assists5Chances created (Big chances)29 (7)Aerial duels won per 901.86Clearances per 903.23Times dribbled past per 900.28Stephenson’s 2025-26 Premiership statsThe Liverpool loanee started at right wing-back for Jim Goodwin’s side and provided a fine assist for Zachary Sapsford to make it 3-2 in the 72nd minute.He now has 10 Premiership goal contributions this season after playing in several positions for United, with Football Insider revealing that Rangers are preparing to accelerate a move for Stephenson after they watched him up close on Saturday.The 22-year-old would likely only be allowed to join the Gers on loan this summer, but his potential arrival would surely mean that Tavernier is allowed to move on as a club legend.What has Tavernier said about his Rangers future?Tavernier has understandably remained coy when asked about what the future holds for him at Ibrox beyond this summer.He dodged a direct question about it following their recent cup loss to Celtic, and instead focused on his aims for the rest of the campaign.Tavernier said: “I obviously want to play, but the manager holds the cards to all of it and what team he selects, and you’ve just got to be fully behind the team of whatever team he selects.



You’ve just got to keep working hard.“I just want to give it my all, like I’ve always done, and that’s the best I possibly can do for myself. The team are working continuously hard, and we would obviously like to see silverware at the end of the season.” Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Rangers Insider Access Get the full story from Ibrox and Auchenhowie with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.