Newcastle United have been linked with a move for a former academy star over 12 years after his departure from St James Park.
Newcastle United are reportedly considering a move for former academy full-back James Tavernier.
The full-back made a handful of first-team appearances during Alan Pardew’s managerial reign before going on to feature for Wigan Athletic. A move to Scottish giants Rangers followed in the summer of 2015 and Tavernier went on to score 144 goals and provide 148 assists in over 560 appearances for the Ibrox club. However, he departed when his contract came to a close this summer and immediately reflected on ‘some truly incredible moments’ during his time north of the border.
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Speaking in April, the former Magpies academy full-back said: "This club has been a huge part of my life and my family's over the past 11 years. It's given me so much, both on and off the pitch, and from the moment I arrived I've always tried to give everything I had to represent it in the right way. To have had the honour of being made captain of this club since 2018 is something I will always be incredibly proud of. Leading this team out, wearing the armband and being trusted in that role has meant more to me that I can properly put into words."
He added: "We've shared the highs and the lows together and some truly incredible moments along the way. To all the players I've shared the pitch and dressing room with over the years, thank you. The bonds that we've built, the battles we've been through and the memories we've created are what make this game so special.”
Tavernier is yet to find a new club with the new season now just weeks away - but TeamTalk have reported Newcastle have an interest in offering the experienced defender a route back to Tyneside over 12 years after he initially departed to join Wigan Athletic during the summer of 2014. However, the same report claims MLS outfit Charlotte FC, who recently signed former Magpies winger Allan Saint-Maximin, are ‘stepping up their interest’ in securing a deal for Tavernier with head coach Dean Smith described as ‘a long-term admirer’ of the full-back.
Turkish clubs Istanbul Basaksehir, Kasimpasa and Amedspor are claimed to have held talks with Tavernier’s representatives and Everton and Aston Villa are said to have ‘made enquiries’ over a possible deal.