James Tavernier offer 'prepared' by Rangers ally Steven Gerrard as Saudi rumour mill explodes

Rangers captain James Tavernier will reportedly be offered a move to the Saudi Pro League this summer by Steven Gerrard's Al-Ettifaq.

The former Ibrox and Aston Villa boss has endured an underwhelming season in the Middle East despite the high-profile additions of Gini Wijnaldum, Demarai Gray, Jack Hendry and Moussa Dembele last summer. Jordan Henderson also arrived amid the spending spree - but quickly departed after just six months in favour of a return to Europe. But with the Liverpool legend under contract for another three years he appears to already be planning another summer overhaul to turn around the club's fortunes.

While talk of a reunion with Tavernier have swirled in Saudi over the last few months, the rumour mill appears to have shifted into overdrive. Multiple outlets are now reporting that an offer is being "prepared" with a view to snapping up the Rangers Hall of Famer this summer.

Slaati state that the a "recommendation" for the deal has come from Gerrard to seal an agreement as he looks to shake up his squad this summer. Management are said to have "agreed" to the demands of the boss despite a poor season season them languishing in seventh spot in the table.

Before leaving Rangers in 2021, Gerrard professed his admiration for the long-serving skipper stating: "People will talk about the assists and the goals but I judge James differently. I judge him on as soon as he walks through the door, what's he doing? Is he helping me set the standards?

"Is he professional in everything he does? Is he leading by example? Is he helping the young lads? Is he making sure everyone is at it and the culture remains strong?"

Speaking on his boss after his exit, Tavernier said: "We’ve achieved so much together. As a team we have grown, demanded more from one another but most importantly we’ve developed into better players and better people.The club is in a better place, of that I have no doubt."