Rangers’ Tavernie Set to Sign With Panathinaikos’

Scottish football’s January transfer window has burst into life with a flurry of cross-border interest, surprise enquiries and unresolved sagas, placing several high-profile Premiership figures firmly in the gossip spotlight.

At the centre of attention is Rangers captain James Tavernier, who is reportedly attracting interest from Greek giants Panathinaikos. The Athens club are now managed by Rafa Benitez, and the former Liverpool and Chelsea boss is said to view Tavernier as an ideal short-term solution at right-back. With the 34-year-old out of contract at Ibrox this summer, Rangers face a key decision over whether to cash in now or risk losing a long-serving captain for nothing. Tavernier, who has been with the club since 2015, remains one of Rangers’ most influential players, both for his leadership and attacking output from defence.

Elsewhere at Ibrox, midfielder Lyall Cameron could be set for a temporary exit. Aberdeen have enquired about taking the 23-year-old on loan, just months after Cameron opted to join Rangers rather than move to Pittodrie when leaving Dundee. Talks are ongoing, with Rangers keen for the midfielder to secure more regular first-team football. It remains unclear whether any deal would include an option to buy, but Cameron’s situation highlights Rangers’ desire to balance squad depth with player development.

Across the city, Celtic are also active. The Parkhead club have reportedly made an enquiry for West Ham United striker Callum Wilson. The 33-year-old England international is understood to be attracting interest from several clubs in England, as well as from Saudi Arabia, suggesting Celtic would face stiff competition if they chose to pursue a deal. Wilson’s experience and proven goalscoring pedigree could appeal to Brendan Rodgers as he looks to strengthen his attacking options for the second half of the season.

Celtic are also among a group of clubs monitoring Denmark Under-21 midfielder Silas Andersen. Swedish side Hacken are said to value the 21-year-old at around £6.65m, with up to five clubs preparing bids. Rangers, however, are no longer believed to be in the race, potentially giving Celtic a clearer run should they decide to formalise their interest.

Meanwhile, Hearts are embroiled in a complicated pursuit of Rogers Mato. The Ugandan forward has already agreed to join the Tynecastle club this summer, but negotiations with his current side Vardar have proved difficult. After two bids were rejected earlier this month, Mato is now refusing to return to North Macedonia following his involvement at the Africa Cup of Nations. Hearts remain hopeful of securing his permanent signing sooner rather than later, ideally before their upcoming clash with Celtic.

With major decisions looming for Rangers, Celtic and Hearts alike, the coming weeks promise plenty more twists as Scotland’s top clubs navigate a pivotal transfer window.