Rangers are reportedly set to offer captain James Tavernier a contract extension this summer, as stated by Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke in a report dated March 14, 2026. This news comes amidst a tumultuous period at Ibrox, as the 34-year-old right-back faces scrutiny following a missed penalty in the Scottish Cup final loss to Celtic, heightening frustrations among sections of the fanbase.
Despite public outcry surrounding his performance, O’Rourke reveals that this incident has not derailed discussions regarding Tavernier’s future. On the Transfer Insider podcast, he confirmed that Rangers wishes to retain their long-standing captain, with formal discussions about a new contract anticipated in the coming weeks.
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As of March 9, Tavernier is eager to extend his contract, hoping to conclude his career at Ibrox. However, his recent diminished playing time under manager Danny Rohl adds complexity to the situation. The duration of any new offer may be a contentious point, given his age, but both sides are working towards a potential agreement. Tavernier’s current contract is set to expire on May 31, 2026, and Rangers must address this before the summer transfer window opens.
During the Transfer Insider podcast, O’Rourke elaborated:
“I don’t believe that cup exit will have a significant impact on his long-term future at Rangers. Tavernier remains a vital player, contributing significantly with goals and assists. He has played numerous games this season and serves as club captain, holding considerable influence both on and off the pitch.”
“Rangers would ideally prefer to retain him; it ultimately depends on how long they are willing to offer in any new contract. However, I believe both parties would prefer Tavernier to sign a new deal. If the right terms come up, I’m sure Tavernier would be glad to extend his stay at Ibrox as well.”
Should Rangers Extend Tavernier’s Contract Beyond 35, Or Is Sentiment Blurring Their Judgment?
PORTO, PORTUGAL – JANUARY 29: James Tavernier of Rangers FC is seen during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between FC Porto and Rangers FC at Estadio do Dragao on January 29, 2026, in Porto, Portugal. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
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This raises a crucial question. Tavernier has made 45 appearances this season, leading Rangers’ scoring with 12 goals, and has created 56 chances in the Scottish Premiership—the highest in the league among all players. These statistics are impressive for a full-back at this stage in his career. With his attacking prowess, set-piece threat, and penalty-taking duties, he bears a significant creative load that no other Rangers player can match. This indicates a lot about his talent but also highlights concerns about the squad’s depth.
The main worry, however, lies in that dependency. Nicolas Raskin, the next most effective chance creator for Rangers, is 10 big chances behind Tavernier this season. As Rangers pursues trophies both domestically and in European competitions, it is unsustainable to continue relying heavily on a 34-year-old full-back for offensive creativity. Defensively, Tavernier has also shown vulnerability against pacey, direct wingers; his positional discipline and recovery speed have declined over the years, making it increasingly easier for opponents to exploit these weaknesses at the top level of domestic football.
Realistically, a one-year extension on modified terms seems like the most feasible solution and, indeed, the right decision. Rohl requires a steady dressing-room leader during what is expected to be a significant summer overhaul. Allowing Tavernier to leave on a free transfer without a suitable replacement would lead to unnecessary disruption. However, beyond 2027, Rangers need to focus on finding a proper successor for the right-back position rather than simply addressing a deeper issue that has quietly developed during his lengthy tenure at the club.