49ers are poised to complete a takeover of Rangers, and their first major move could involve the departure of long-serving club captain James Tavernier, according to sources cited by TEAMtalk.
The American football franchise is close to finalising a deal that would see them assume control of the Ibrox outfit in a move expected to reshape the club’s future. With Celtic dominating the Scottish Premiership once again this season, insiders suggest the 49ers are planning a “huge rebuild” to re-establish Rangers as a consistent title challenger.
While the ambition is clear, the process will require patience. TEAMtalk reports that the incoming owners have no intention of splashing cash on short-term fixes. Instead, the strategy will focus on a phased overhaul of the squad, with a number of players expected to depart over the coming transfer windows.
Tavernier, a mainstay in the Rangers defence and a frequent contributor in crucial moments, is among those who could be moved on. At 33, the right-back is considered past his peak, and with his contract running until summer 2026, this upcoming transfer window—or January 2026—represents the last realistic opportunity for Rangers to secure a fee.
The experienced defender is reportedly attracting interest from clubs in Italy and the United States, and his high wages are also a factor in the club’s thinking. As the top earner at Ibrox, his departure would create financial flexibility to support the rebuild.
Tavernier has spent nearly a decade at Rangers, becoming a fan favourite and leader on the pitch. However, the club’s continued failure to wrestle the Premiership title back from Celtic has prompted the need for major change—a change that may now be led by the 49ers’ vision of long-term stability over immediate spending.
With their takeover imminent, all eyes will be on the decisions that follow—and whether Tavernier’s time in Glasgow is coming to a close.