James Tavernier has emerged as a priority target for Newcastle United. Latest reports from Daily Mail as cited by Daily Star, suggests that Rangers will find it hard to resist if an offer worth £8m comes in for the captain. Steven Gerrard has always maintained that all his players are up for sale but only for the right price.
The lure of the Premier League could be tough to ignore for Tavernier who might want to have a second crack with the Magpies; a club where he started his career. Gerrard will need to bring in someone who can replace his attacking threat as Tavernier contributed with 17 goals and 20 assists last season.
Here are three players the English manager can go after if Tav actually departs the club.
Hiroki Sakai
The Japanese international currently plies his trade for Marseille in the Ligue 1. The defender made 32 appearances in all competitions last season. Sakai is known for his tireless running, and impressive physical qualities. His pace can also trouble quite a few defenders in the Premiership. Sakai has a good amount of experience of playing in competitions like the Europa League.
Given his physical strength and aggressive style of play, his game will suit the Scottish Premiership. Gerrard should definitely consider signing this 29-year-old right back. His ability to play as a left-back will also come in handy in a long season.
Javier Manquillo
Rangers can try to involve Manquillo in the deal for Tavernier. The Spanish fullback played with Gerrard when he was on loan with Liverpool. The defender is also in the final year of his contract with the Magpies, and the Gers should try to strike a deal for him if Newcastle goes in for Tavernier. The 25-year-old showcases impressive pace and excellent ability to carry the ball from the back. He can be a plausible option for Gerrard.
Ryan Shotton
The Middlesbrough defender is currently in the final year of his contract, and he is worth considering. Shotton is more of a defensive-minded fullback, but he can hold his own while playing high up the pitch. One of the primary reasons why we feel that he can thrive in Scotland is because of his physical strength. The defender stands in at 6ft3 and can fill in as a centre back when required.
The English defender played 35 games last season in all competitions for Middlesbrough and was part of a solid defensive unit. Signing him might indeed mean that Gerrard would compromise on the attacking side of the game, but Shotton can make it up with his defensive qualities.
