According to the latest reports from Birmingham Mail, Rangers captain James Tavernier is drawing interest from newly promoted English club Aston Villa. The Villans are said to be keen on the right back, and they are considering making a move for the English fullback.
The former Newcastle United player had a fantastic season for the Gers as he contributed immensely in the attacking third. Tavernier scored 17 and set up 20 goals last season. Most of his goals were from penalties, but his overall contribution in the attacking third cannot be overlooked.
Defensively, the 27-year-old looks vulnerable from time to time. However, such is the ways of modern day football that managers would rather have a fullback who is more attack-minded than a player who is better defensively. Gerrard had already claimed earlier that all his players are for sale but only for the right price.
It remains to be seen what kind of offer the Claret and Blue comes up with after their promotion to the Premier League. As for Rangers, we feel that if they get an offer of over £5m, then they could be tempted to sell their captain.
How much should Gerrard demand from Villa?
Tavernier will be 28 in a few months time, and the Gers should look to demand atleast £8m for him. Given that Aston Villa have won promotion, they should have enough money to meet Rangers’ demand so Gerrard shouldn’t cave in easily.
We feel that with that kind of money the Bears will be able to get a ready replacement. They can even invest and improve other areas of their squad from that sum. Jon Flanagan who had predominantly played as a left back last season can be an option to replace Tavernier in the short term. However, Flanagan wouldn’t be able to come up with attacking returns as he is a more defensive minded fullback.
Why might Tavernier be tempted to move?
Even with all his attacking returns, Tavernier has never been an absolute fan favourite at the club as he has been behind some glaring errors at the back. However, finding his replacement will be a big ask for Gerrard. We feel that the Englishman might be tempted to move to the Premier League. Tavernier even has two appearances in the English top flight where he played small cameos, and he might want to have another go in his homeland after failing to make the cut with Newcastle United earlier.
