Sources: Rafa Benitez's club line up move to sign Rangers star after confirmed news

James Tavernier is attracting interest from Greek outfit Panathinaikos after he announced his imminent departure from Rangers, sources have told Football Insider.

The 34-year-old is out of contract at the end of June and has now announced he will not be signing a new deal, bringing his 11-year stay in Glasgow to an end.

A number of clubs in Turkey and Saudi Arabia are believed to be keeping a close eye on his situation after having previously failed with moves for his signature.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Panathinaikos are among the contenders as Rafa Benitez is preparing a move to tempt Tavernier to Greece.

However, Benitez’s job at Panathinaikos is currently under threat, and his dismissal could complicate any move for the right-back as he prepares to leave Rangers.

Where could James Tavernier go after leaving Rangers?

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown first told Football Insider last month that Tavernier is prepared to walk away from Rangers this summer.

No talks had been held over a new contract, and with a decision about his future delaying, he has decided to step away amid interest from elsewhere.

While no clubs have firmed up their interest as things stand, Panatinaikos have now emerged as leading candidates in the race to sign the right-back.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “There’s nothing set in stone with regard to James Tavernier’s future as things stand.

“Obviously, he’s announced that he’s leaving Rangers after a really successful 11-year spell at the club. He’s going to leave a huge hole to be filled at Ibrox.

“Look, he is 34 now, but despite that I think there will be interest in Tavernier on a free transfer.

“Panathinaikos in Greece have emerged as a possible landing spot for Tavernier as well, with Rafa Benitez in charge at the Greek club.

“He would be keen to see Tavernier make the move over there.

“So he won’t be short of options when he does become available on a free, there are a lot of clubs prepared to make offers to him.”

How do Rangers feel about losing Tavernier?

Losing Tavernier could come as a big blow for Rangers given his importance to the team and the role he has played during his long career at Ibrox.

Football Insider previously revealed that Rohl is keen to keep Tavernier around not only due to his influence on the pitch but also behind the scenes.

The right-back’s experience and leadership in the role as captain made him an important asset in the dressing room, and his influence will be missed.

Rangers are now set to call upon some of the other experienced players in their squad in leadership roles, including current vice-captain John Souttar.

They will also have to find a replacement for the right-back, which will be a difficult task, as he has made the position his own over a decade at Ibrox.

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