James Tavernier transfer 'back ON' as Rangers skipper learns deadlines for FIVE routes out

James Tavernier could still leave Rangers this summer despite the UK transfer window being closed - with clubs in Turkey and Qatar reportedly 'ready' to make their moves.

The Ibrox captain was heavily linked with a move to Trabzonspor earlier in the window while Steven Gerrard's Al-Ettifaq also held a firm interest in taking him to Saudi Arabia. But neither move came to fruition before the UK window closed on August 30, leading to an assumption that Rangers wouldn't sell with no chance to sign a replacement unless they look into the free agent market.

Now though it's being reported that the door is very much still open for a Tavernier exit. HITC say there are five clubs keen to sign him, with Istanbul Basaksehir, Fenerbahce and Galatasaray among those believed to be keen. Turkish clubs can sign players until September 13 so there is a week remaining for any of those teams to strike a deal.

The Saudi transfer window closed just after the UK one, but it's also claimed that Al-Arabi and Al-Garafa in Qatar are interested in a deal for Tavernier. Their deadline is Monday September 9 so they would have to ramp up interest this weekend.

The report further notes that Rangers would be open to selling Tavernier if the right offer arrived. But with no chance to dip into the market to buy a replacement, it's likely it will take a substantial bid.