Philippe Clement has issued a warning to Al-Ettifaq, stating that they will need to pay “a lot of money” if they intend to secure the services of Connor Goldson and James Tavernier this summer.
Earlier this week, Record Sport exclusively revealed that the skipper of Rangers, Tavernier, and experienced defender Goldson are on Al-Ettifaq’s shopping list for the summer transfer window. This move comes as Steven Gerrard, the Liverpool legend and current Al-Ettifaq manager, aims to strengthen his team’s defense after a disappointing Saudi Pro League campaign that has seen Ettifaq positioned in seventh place in the table.
Despite Gerrard’s reported interest in signing the duo from the Scottish Premiership, Belgian manager Clement seemed unfazed by the speculation, expressing his expectation that the long-serving pair will remain at Ibrox next season.
When questioned about a potential approach from the Saudi side and their former boss Gerrard by Sky Sports before the clash with St Mirren, Clement responded, “It will cost a lot of money. We haven’t heard anything about that. They are for me two players who are important for next season. I didn’t hear anything about that so I will not go into all the rumours. Every week there are different rumours. Otherwise I have too much to talk about, I try not to get into things that are not relevant.”
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Clement further disclosed that no talks have taken place with the players over their futures. “I expect them to be here next season. That’s my expectation. Have I spoken to them? No. There’s no reason to. My players come to speak to me if they have doubts or if they want to go or if they are out of contract. We have that relationship,” he added.