Arsenal are battling Premier League rivals Manchester United, Norwich City and Brighton to sign Rangers captain James Tavernier during the summer transfer window, as reported by 90Min.
A set-piece specialist, a leader, a proven trophy-winner and a one-man assist machine; what’s not to like about James Tavernier?
While we are almost certain that many an Arsenal supporter will raise their eyebrows and turn up their nose when asked about the prospect of a 29-year-old arriving at the Emirates from Scottish football, a man who captained Rangers to their first Premiership title in a decade deserves the benefit of the doubt.
Last season, the one-time Newcastle United youngster produced 19 goals and 16 assists – all from full-back mind you – as Steven Gerrard’s Gers finished a staggering 25 points clear of Old Firm rivals Celtic.
And if Arsenal fans were sick of seeing Hector Bellerin fire daisy-cutting crosses into the ankles of a nearby defender, Tavernier’s ability to put the ball on a sixpence with his pinpoint delivery would surely silence those critics rather quickly.
Will James Tavernier replace Hector Bellerin at Arsenal?
90Min believe that Tavernier has been lined up as a potential replacement, although the Gunners will face competition from Norwich, Brighton and a Manchester United side keen to provide some competition for Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
“When we turned up we knew we had the best right-back in the league, and that’s stayed the same. His consistency has been outrageous really. He’s gotten stronger and stronger as the games go on,” Gerrard said of a man who has improved beyond all recognition during six seasons at Ibrox.
“The numbers for a full-back, no matter what league or what level you’re playing at, are outstanding.”
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