James Tavernier update emerges as Burnley battle for ex-Rangers star | OneFootball

Burnley are among the clubs interested in signing James Tavernier

Burnley have held talks with former Rangers star James Tavernier following his exit from Ibrox.

According to Talksport, the Clarets are interested in bringing the 34-year-old to Turf Moor for next season after their relegation from the Premier League.

However, the Lancashire outfit face competition in the race to sign the free agent, who also has interest from MLS side Charlotte FC.

Tavernier spent 11 seasons with the Premiership side, helping them win both the 2016 Championship and 2021 Premiership titles in that period.

But he has departed Ibrox this summer with the expiry of his contract, meaning he is free to discuss terms with prospective new clubs.

And it remains to be seen what the next step will be for the right-back, with multiple clubs chasing his signature.

Burnley target James Tavernier deal

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It’s believed that Burnley have held talks with Tavernier over a potential move to Turf Moor this summer.

It remains to be seen whether he can be convinced to sign for the Clarets at this stage, as he also has interest from the United States.

Manager Dean Smith is keen to bring him to Charlotte after his departure from Rangers, with no decision yet made over his future.

French clubs Nice and Paris FC are also interested in a deal for Tavernier, with Liam Rosenior now in charge of the latter.

Tavernier was a key figure for Rangers even in his final year for the club, as he contributed eight goals and four assists in 34 league appearances.

The 34-year-old was a real attacking threat throughout his time at Ibrox, and this continued under Danny Rohl, as he registered an expected assists (xA) per 90 of 0.29, while creating 2.63 chances each game (all stats from Fotmob).

While he wasn’t as secure defensively, he still managed 2.17 tackles and 0.84 interceptions per 90, with his focus being more about getting involved in the final third from right-back.

Burnley’s summer transfer activity

Burnley have had a quiet transfer window so far, completing a permanent move for Florentino after his initial loan spell.

The Clarets have also signed Ugo Raghouber from Lille, and have until 1 September to complete any remaining business.

But free agents can be signed after this window, meaning a deal for Tavernier could drag into next month.

However, the new season gets underway with a home clash against West Ham on 16 August, and Nicky Hayen will surely want fresh faces in before then.

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James Tavernier signing could be a smart move for Burnley

Kyle Walker has played at centre-back for Burnley in pre-season, and that’s a position he could feature in once the campaign gets underway.

That would open space for another right-back signing at Turf Moor, and Tavernier has the potential to be quite an addition.

The 34-year-old was a great servant for Rangers over the last 11 years, and his attacking prowess from the right flank was particularly useful.

Having that kind of threat from right-back could be quite helpful for Hayen’s side next season, and his free agency means that the cost of a deal would be relatively low and risk-free.