SHOCK TRANSFER BOMBSHELL: Newcastle United ready to SMASH the bank for UNSTOPPABLE 144-GOAL DEFENDER… as Everton and Aston Villa join DESPERATE three-way WAR for the Premier League’s most lethal centre-back!
Former Newcastle academy star could seal surprise St James' Park return
Newcastle United are reportedly weighing up a surprise move to bring former academy graduate James Tavernier back to St James’ Park more than a decade after his departure.
The experienced right-back came through the Magpies’ youth system and made a handful of senior appearances under Alan Pardew before joining Wigan Athletic in the summer of 2014.
A year later, he completed a move to Scottish giants Rangers, where he established himself as one of the club’s greatest modern servants.
During an outstanding 11-year spell at Ibrox, Tavernier amassed an impressive record of 144 goals and 148 assists in over 560 appearances.
His attacking output, leadership and consistency earned him the captaincy in 2018, a role he held with distinction until leaving the club after his contract expired this summer.
Reflecting on his departure, Tavernier described Rangers as a club that had played a huge role in both his career and family life.
He expressed immense pride at captaining the side, saying it was an honour that meant more than words could fully explain.
He also thanked his teammates for the unforgettable memories they created together, highlighting the friendships, challenges and successes they shared throughout his time in Glasgow.
Despite becoming a free agent, the 34-year-old is yet to secure his next club as the new campaign draws closer.
According to TeamTalk, Newcastle are exploring the possibility of offering the veteran defender a return to Tyneside, where his professional journey first began.
However, the Magpies are unlikely to have a clear run at signing Tavernier.
The report claims Major League Soccer side Charlotte FC have intensified their interest, with head coach Dean Smith said to be a long-term admirer of the former Rangers captain.
Charlotte recently strengthened their squad by signing ex-Newcastle winger Allan Saint-Maximin, and Tavernier could become the latest player with Magpies connections to join the American club.
Interest in the defender extends beyond England and the United States.
Turkish sides Istanbul Basaksehir, Kasimpasa and Amedspor are all believed to have held discussions with Tavernier’s representatives over a potential move.
Meanwhile, Premier League clubs Everton and Aston Villa have also reportedly made enquiries as they assess the possibility of signing the experienced full-back on a free transfer before the summer window closes.
