James Tavernier is set to fly to Israel today to undergo medical tests ahead of his proposed move to Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The Rangers legend is closing in on a move to the Israeli champions, although the transfer has not yet been officially confirmed by Maccabi.
More details have now emerged on the deal, with Tavernier reportedly set to earn around €1 million per season in Israel.
The 34-year-old is expected to bring a wealth of experience to Maccabi, having spent 11 years at Rangers and established himself as one of the most important players in the club's modern history. He won the 2020/21 Scottish Premiership title, captaining Steven Gerrard’s team to an unbeaten season, one Scottish Cup, one Premier Sports Cup, one Challenge Cup and one Championship title, as well as to the 2022 Europa League final.
Kenny Miller targets Tavernier
According to Israeli journalist Ben Green, Maccabi manager Kenny Miller has personally targeted Tavernier as part of his plans for the squad.
Miller knows the defender well, having played alongside Tavernier at Rangers for three seasons.
The Maccabi boss recently discussed the possibility of signing Tavernier with the Israeli press, saying: “I know him well, he’s a very high-level player, his name came up in the last month.”
There is also speculation that Maccabi could alter their tactical approach to accommodate Tavernier.
One possibility being discussed is a switch towards a wing-back system, which would allow the former Rangers captain to play in a more attacking role.
The former Rangers captain scored 152 goals during his 11-year spell at Ibrox, an extraordinary tally for a defender.
He was inducted into the Rangers Hall of Fame in 2023 and leaves behind a remarkable legacy at the club.
Tavernier was also the Europa League's top scorer during Rangers' run to the final in Seville, scoring seven goals in the competition.
His arrival has generated significant excitement in Israel, with local media describing him as one of the most notable players ever to move to the Ligat Ha'al.
Maccabi are also strengthening elsewhere at the end of the transfer window, with Gabi Kanikovsky returning to the club from Ferencvaros.
Should everything go according to plan, the long-serving Rangers defender will begin a new chapter in Israel after more than a decade at Ibrox.
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