James Tavernier and Connor Goldson Rangers transfer exits on the cards as Steven Gerrard 'launches double raid'

Steven Gerrard is reportedly plotting a stunning double raid on Rangers this summer by bringing two of his former players to Saudi Arabia.

Reports in the Middle East claim that Ibrox skipper James Tavernier has emerged as a priority target for Gerrard and that Al-Ettifaq's mega-rich hierarchy have agreed to sanction a formal offer for the right-back. Tavernier, 32, captained Gers to 2020-21 title glory under Gerrard and the pair enjoyed a close relationship.

The long-serving defender will enter his testimonial year at Rangers next season as he approaches his tenth season in Glasgow, but Gerrard could now lure the 2022 Europa League runner-up to the Persian Gulf with a mega-bucks payday as the Liverpool legend plans an end of season rebuild.

It's also reported by the Daily Record that Gerrard could launch a shock move for veteran defender Connor Goldson, who he brought to Ibrox from Brighton in 2018. Goldson, 31, has been a pillar in the backline for Rangers over the last six years but a recent dip in form has created question marks over his long-term future under Philippe Clement.

Like Tavernier, the stopper is among the top five highest earners at Ibrox and as well as raking in significant transfer fees for two players in their 30s, Gers could free up around £70,000 in wages for new signings as Clement looks to clear the decks for his summer revamp.

Gerrard is set to be bankrolled with a major transfer kitty by Al-Ettifaq's wealthy owners, despite having already spent a fortune on luring the likes of Gini Wijnaldum, Jordan Henderson, Demarai Gray to the Saudi Pro League. Ex-Celtic duo Moussa Dembele and Jack Hendry are also on the books of Al-Ettifaq and now they could be soon joined by their former Old Firm rivals.

Multiple reports in Saudi suggest deals for Tavernier and Goldson could be thrashed out AFTER the May 25 Scottish Cup Final against Celtic at Hampden.