James Tavernier has told Rangers his exit stance as recurring Saudi rumour escalated by Beale and Gerrard reunion

The rumour mill has been sent into overdrive by Michael Beale's reunion with Steven Gerrard - with speculation that Rangers captain James Tavernier could follow him.

The 33-year-old was previously touted with a move to join Liverpool icon Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq last summer and was also wanted by Trabzonspor - but remained at Ibrox as he looked to launch a push for the Scottish Premiership title. However, things haven't gone to plan for the right-back so far this term as he has struggled to capture his best from with Philippe Clement turning to Dujon Sterling and Neraysho Kasanwirjo on the right side on the defence with goalkeeper Jack Butland being handed the Rangers armband in the absence of the skipper.

But after Beale returned to his role as Gerrard's assistant the rumours have only ramped up that Tavernier could be next to join the Light Blues' reunion in the Saudi Pro League. One punter posted to X responding to the move for the ex Sunderland boss to the Middle East: "Tavernier to Saudi written all over it."

Another chimed in: "If they can get him out of his contract Tavernier will be away." One rounded off: "Makes sense for him to go if we can get the money."

Beale hasn't been shy in praising Tavernier during his time as both Ibrox assistant and boss - stating back in 2023: “When I came in 2018 as one of the assistants, James had inherited the captaincy before we came in and he kept it.

“He certainly was then more of a captain in terms of his performances on the pitch and around the building. There were other people equally as strong or more stronger than him, in terms of personality and in terms of driving standards."

After Beale was shown the door, Tavernier was quick to defend his ally: “As a team or a player