Sources: James Tavernier makes decision on Premier League move after Rangers exit
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(Credit: Imago) Tue 28 April 2026 7:00, UK Rangers captain James Tavernier is prepared snub a return to England in favour of a move to the Saudi Pro League, sources have told Football Insider.The 34-year-old has confirmed he will be leaving Ibrox at the end of the season, although his destination is currently unknown amid growing interest.Clubs in the Premier League and Championship have been tipped to make moves for the experienced right-back, but he is considered unlikely to move to England.As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Tavernier is eyeing a big contract either in the Saudi Pro League or elsewhere in Europe.Middle-Eastern clubs have previously considered a move to sign the Gers star but attempts have proved unsuccessful, but he is now preparing to leave Rangers. 🔄 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 Where is James Tavernier going after leaving Rangers?Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown first told Football Insider last month that Tavernier is prepared to walk away from Rangers this summer.That was later confirmed by the right-back, who announced his decision to leave after no contract talks had been held, putting a number of clubs on alert.James TavernierRangers Stats 2025-26Appearances50Starts36Minutes Played3588Goals14Assists6James Tavernier’s stats for Rangers in 2025-26.
(via Transfermarkt)He is now believed to be eyeing a new challenge and a change of environment, making a return to English football unlikely as he eyes a move elsewhere.Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “There’s nothing set in stone with Tavernier. There’s been interest from Saudi Arabia.“Obviously he’s announced that he’s leaving Rangers after a really successful 11-year spell at the club.“I don’t envisage that he will make the move down to England in the Premier League I think probably at this stage of his career.“Tavernier himself would prefer a new challenge, so maybe a move to Europe or the Saudi Pro League where there has been interest in the past.“He’ll have options from a number of clubs in different countries, and maybe big contracts as well, so a return to England now is unlikely.”Who else is interested in signing Tavernier?Interest in Tavernier’s situation is not only coming from the Saudi Pro League, with clubs in Turkey and Greece also lining up potential moves.Football Insider revealed on 24 April that Panathinaikos are interested in Tavernier and could make a move to lure him to Greece this summer.Credit: ImagoRafa Benitez, who has previously been linked with the job at Ibrox, is said to be keen to link up with the Rangers star if he can convince him of the move.However, Benitez’s job at Panathinaikos is currently under threat, and his dismissal could complicate any move for the right-back this summer.Clubs in both Turkey and Saudi Arabia could be boosted as a result, having previously made moves for him, as their interest has lingered.
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