Trabzonspor’s initial bid for James Tavernier has been turned down. The Rangers captain has attracted significant interest from the Turkish club, which has been escalating in recent hours. Trabzonspor, having already secured John Lundstram and Borna Barisic from Rangers this window, aimed to reunite Tavernier with his former teammates.

Reports from Turkey indicate that Tavernier has agreed to an initial two-year contract. However, the initial bid fell short of Rangers’ valuation by approximately €1 million (£850,000). Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that this offer was rejected, with Trabzonspor needing to increase their offer if they wish to secure Tavernier’s transfer. The club is expected to return with a revised bid, as Trabzonspor’s president Ertugrul Dogan has hinted at “five or six” potential signings.

On Clyde 1 SSB, Bartley commented: “Unless Trabzonspor offers more than Rangers’ valuation, the response will likely be a firm ‘no’. There’s mixed opinion on Tavernier, with some questioning his defensive abilities, but losing him would create a significant gap in goals and assists.

“Philippe Clement recently mentioned the need to sell before buying, so other clubs might see this as an opportunity to make a move for certain players while Rangers are looking to raise funds.”