It’s a story that is refusing to go away and not because the Scottish press is intent on punting Rangers stalwarts James Tavernier and Connor Goldson to Saudi Arabia.
Most of the reports originated from the Middle East with Steven Gerrard’s every word being interpreted as being a note of interest in the Ibrox pair.
That interest just got more serious with Heart and Hand’s David Edgar revealing that Rangers could be braced for bids as the former manager looks for more experience.
Rangers exit possible for Connor Goldson and James Tavernier
The squad is undergoing major changes this summer and it would appear that nobody is safe.
Speaking on Tuesday 11th June’s daily update, Edgar explained where the link is coming from and why it might not just be paper talk:
“Reports from Saudi Arabia the Hi Koura website and newspaper reports that former Rangers manager Steven Gerrard is of the belief that Rangers would be willing to cash in on Connor Goldson and James Tavernier this summer.
“They report that he’s made the club aware and they in turn make the central fund who are responsible for all the transfers aware that these are players that they might be keen on bringing.
“Of course, James Bisgrove is heading over there as well and he might have something to say when he gets to his club.”
Rangers planning for a future without Tavernier and Goldson
Rangers have been linked with plenty of players in the captain and vice-captain’s positions.
The latest name mentioned who is a centre-half by trade but capable of playing at right-back is Flavius Daniliuc, the Salernitana defender who spent the second half of the season at RB Salzburg.
Clinton Nsiala has been signed already and Thomas Galdames’ name is never far away from reports too.
Despite playing a lot of his football at left-back and higher up the park, he feels more at home in the middle of defence.
Jose Cordoba chose the Championship instead of the Champions League with Ben Johnson and Reuell Walters also rumoured to be targets and capable of covering in both positions.
Philippe Clement replied to speculation at the end of the season and was adamant that neither were up for sale and that it would take a lot of money to part with the experienced pair.
Just as well the Saudi’s have deep pockets.
Tavernier will be 33 next season, Goldson 32 with the latter starting to collect serious injuries in the last two campaigns.
Dujon Sterling has already shown how good a player he is, and he has barely been seen in his preferred right-back position.
That Goldson was dropped by Clement suggests that the manager isn’t scared to make the big decisions, however, it shouldn’t take a long time to think about this one if the price is right.
