According to the Daily Mail, Rangers captain James Tavernier has emerged as a transfer target for Panathinaikos. Tavernier's contract in Glasgow is set to expire this summer, and there has been no news from Rangers about a potential extension. This has led to interest from the Greek club in a potential free transfer in the summer or on a pre-agreement. His form has attracted the attention of Panathinaikos and their manager Rafa Benitez, who are now considering a potential move to sign him on a free transfer this summer. With Tavernier's contract in its final six months, FIFA rules allow the Greek side to approach the player about a move without Rangers' permission.

Panathinaikos manager Rafa Benitez, who was formerly with Liverpool and Chelsea, wants to sign 34-year-old English Rangers captain James Tavernier. The potential move is targeted for the upcoming summer rather than the current transfer period. The right-back's contract expires in the summer of 2026, and Benitez's team is reportedly considering offering a pre-contract agreement to the player. Tavernier has been with the Scottish club since 2015. A report describes Tavernier as the most prolific British defender in history with 146 career goals, also noting his effectiveness from the penalty spot and his 99 league goals for the Ibrox club. In the current 2025/2026 Scottish Premiership season, Tavernier has 5 goals and 3 assists from 22 appearances. His current market value is €1.30m, according to Transfermarkt.