Rangers centre-back John Souttar has spoken out on reports linking captain James Tavernier with a move away from Ibrox this summer.
The Scotland international said that despite increasing rumours that the veteran Gers right-back could be heading elsewhere this summer, the squad aren’t distracted in the slightest by these developments.
Tavernier is reportedly a target for Turkish side Trabzonspor this summer, who submitted a bid with Philippe Clement willing to sell his captain should the right price be met [Sky Sports, 19 July].
Speaking to the Daily Record on the reports (21 July), Souttar said: “I don’t think it’s a disruption at all.
“It’s part of football. In every transfer window at clubs like this there are going to be people linked with going and with different things.
“I think that’s just one of the things being part of Rangers. It’s going to happen and it’s important the boys concentrate on playing football and training every day. Anything else will take care of itself.”
James Tavernier transfer away from Rangers looks likely
Clement’s reshaping of the Gers squad this summer began at a rapid pace, with six new signings through the door and five out-of-favour players jettisoned before the first week in July was up.
However, that progress has slowed since with Hamza Igamane the most recent signing, but shifting someone like Tavernier – and his sizeable wages – off the books could kick-start business once again.
The Gers seemingly already have a ready-made replacement for the 31-year-old at right-back too in the form of Dujon Sterling, if his pre-season performance against Manchester United is anything to go by.
Collecting a transfer fee for a full-back on the wrong side of 30 would be smart business on Clement’s part, with the Belgian stating that everyone bar goalkeeper Jack Butland may be for sale this summer [Rangers Review, 14 July].
Souttar already has two new defensive team-mates to get used to in Jefte and Clinton Nsiala, but with change the overriding theme of this summer’s transfer window, Clement will hope the Scotsman can shine regardless of who plays next to him.
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