Rangers manager Philippe Clement has intimated it would cost “a lot of money” if any club attempted to buy key Ibrox defensive duo James Tavernier and Connor Goldson.
It emerged earlier this week that full-back Tavernier, 32, and centre-half Goldson, 31, were attracting interest from Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ettifaq, managed by ex-Gers boss Steven Gerrard.
But could the pair really be tempted by moving to the Middle East and agreeing a lucrative deal in the process? Well, as things stand both players are under contract until 2026 and Clement addressed the speculation surrounding two of his key men on Friday afternoon. He stated: “It would cost a lot of money. They are two players who are important for next season.”
One potential hurdle facing both players joining the Saudi Pro League is set to be removed with plans for rule changes over the number of foreign players allowed in each squad now underway. Current league rules state only eight players from outside of the country are allowed per squad - a rule that has affected former Celtic hero Jota following his whopping £25million move.
According to reports in the Middle East, the figure will increase to 10 foreign players next season which is expected to encourage clubs to step up their efforts to sign players from top sides across the globe.
With that in mind, GlasgowWorld has weighed up 13 pros and cons of keeping hold of James Tavernier and Connor Goldson this summer.
5. Defensively suspect
For all the plaudits he gets for his goal scoring ability, Tavernier could do with working on the defensive side of his game. While his contribution going forward cannot be questioned, he is often caught out of position and has been at fault of the conceding of key goal, including in the latest Old Firm clash with Celtic at Ibrox. | SNS Group
6. Goldson's aerial threat
A dominant figure in both boxes, Goldson often relishes aerial duels and is a player to be marked closely at set pieces. Arguably should score more goals than he does from headers, but uses his physical presence to good effect. | Getty Images
7. Tav's leadership qualities
One of Tavernier's main strengths. Rather than being a shouter on the pitch, Tavernier lets his performance do the talking. He continues to drive the standards both off and off the park and can lift the team's intensity by popping up with a moment of real quality when they need him to produce. | Getty Images
8. Old Firm record
Between the pair, their derby day record doesn't make for great reading and they'll be annoyed deep down not to have won more silverware over the years as a result. | SNS Group