James Tavernier set to STAY at Rangers as captain makes transfer decision for one key reason

James Tavernier is set to remain at Rangers after snubbing a move to Turkey.

The captain was faced with ugly scenes after last week’s Old Firm defeat as he was heckled by a furious fan on the Ibrox doorstep. That sparked wild speculation that suggested the 32-year-old was preparing to make a dash for the Gers exit. But Record Sport understands the skipper has always been determined to stay and fight for boss Philippe Clement.

It was reported in Turkey that Istanbul Basaksehir had made a bold bid to lure the Englishman away from the club he has served for the past nine years. The likes of Fenerbahce, Galatasaray and Besiktas - managed by his former Light Blues gaffer Gio van Bronckhorst - were also rumoured to be keeping tabs on his situation. The giant Super Lig trio would have had to dispense with some of their big-name overseas imports ahead of tonight’s Turkish transfer deadline in order to make a move.

Super Lig rules bar clubs registering more than 12 foreign signings. Besiktas - who have maxed out their non-native recruits - and Galatasaray failed with a late appeal to have that limit increased to 14.

But even had they been successful, Tavernier would not have been taking up the offer of a bumper wage rise after deciding to stay put. The former Newcastle and Wigan ace will be due a testimonial if he clocks up a decade’s worth of service with Gers by seeing out the season in Glasgow.

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