Rangers signed off the transfer window with an air of disappointment after failing to strengthen in a couple of key positions.
Why was clear though, was that Philippe Clement was looking to the future when rebuilding his squad and that Nils Koppen’s player trading model was going to be stuck to in an attempt to bring sustained success back to Ibrox.
The signing of Neysharo Kasanwirjo is a perfect example of this with the versatile defender being considered as the long-term replacement for James Tavernier, a step up that could come closer than many would have first thought.
James Tavernier could still leave Rangers
According to transfer journalist Graeme Bailey via HITC, there are a “number of club” considering a move for the Gera skipper.
Clubs in Turkey and Qatar are monitoring his situation and, speaking exclusively to Rangers News, Bailey reckons that the fallout from the Old Firm defeat could make up the 32-year old’s mind on his future:
“I understand that a number of clubs have been alerted to the fact that James Tavernier could be available.
“The abuse that was dished out to him following the Old Firm clash was something that was noticed and now there is a real chance he could move.
“It would be a real shame for me to see Tavernier, a true Ibrox legend to leave in this way. The goals and assists he has managed in a Light Blue have been phenomenal, and the treatment he has received, I think is nothing short of disgusting.
“If he does leave, it will be like an end of an area, the last player from the Europa League final team to leave but I don’t think all of them gone with two-years is anything to brag about. This current Rangers XI, in my opinion, couldn’t hold a candle to that team.”
Time is right for Rangers to sell Tavernier
James Tavernier, who was linked with various moves during the summer, has his name in Rangers Hall of Fame but his career north of the border has rarely been plain sailing.
His numbers are irrefutable, however, even in his best form, he has been found wanting in Old Firm derbies on too many occasions for a large percentage of the fan base.
Tavernier is also one of the biggest earners at the club and, with his 33rd birthday around the corner, Rangers would seriously consider cashing in.
Dujon Sterling is a natural right back but never really had a run of games in his preferred position and Kasanwirjo shares a similar profile.
They might not have the same attacking flair as Tavernier but what they do have is an improved 1v1 duel ability and are more concerned with stopping rather than creating.
After the abuse that Tavernier took in the aftermath of the Old Firm defeat, who would blame him for wanting a break from the Glasgow goldfish bowl.
