Veteran English Defender James Tavernier Arrives in Israel for Maccabi Tel Aviv Transfer

English defender James Tavernier, 34, arrived in Israel overnight ahead of a significant transfer to Maccabi Tel Aviv. The veteran fullback, who spent 11 years with Scottish club Rangers, is set to undergo medical tests and finalize his contract with the Israeli side on Wednesday.

Tavernier will reunite with Kenny Miller, his former teammate at Rangers, who is now a coach at Maccabi Tel Aviv. This move marks Tavernier's fourth signing for the Israeli club this summer, joining Dan Glazer, Aster Skrle, and Gabi Kaniyovsky. The club recently saw Roy Revivo depart for Elche.

During his decade at Rangers, Tavernier was a key offensive contributor, scoring 148 goals and providing 141 assists. In his last season, he recorded eight goals and four assists, despite losing his starting position. He had announced his desire to leave the club at the end of the season, leading to his free transfer to Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Previously, Tavernier played for Newcastle and was linked with moves back to the English club, as well as Nice and other top European leagues. His arrival at Maccabi Tel Aviv comes after the team's elimination from European competition.