Reinforcements are needed all across the pitch at Newcastle United this summer. They have seen key players like Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon leave in big-money moves. And while the Magpies have brought in replacements in those positions, their experience and quality might not have been replaced.
On top of that, there is the possibility that players like Bruno Guimaraes, Joe Willock, Nick Pope, Lewis Hall and more could still leave in this summer transfer window.
So, there is an urgent need to add some quality and experience to this squad, having already brought in multiple youngsters and wonderkids in this summer transfer window.
Now, it looks like the club are ready to bring back one of their former players. But unlike the rest of their signings, he is actually in the twilight of his career.
Newcastle United interested in reunion with former player
According to TEAMtalk, Newcastle United are interested in James Tavernier. But Charlotte FC have emerged as the frontrunners to sign the former Rangers captain this summer and are leading the race.
Tavernier spent over a decade playing for the Rangers. But he is now available as a free agent this summer. Could the Magpies reunite with the Englishman?
Having spent most of his youth academy days at Leeds United, Tavernier made a late move to Newcastle. It is with the Magpies that he broke into senior football.
Ultimately, he would only make 10 senior appearances for the club. He spent most of his time out on loan and had six different stints before ultimately joining Wigan Athletic permanently.
At that point, nobody would have predicted the career that he would go on to have. Now, at 34 years of age and as a free agent, is a return to St James’ Park on the cards.
What would James Tavernier bring to the table?
The first thing that Tavernier would add to this Newcastle United team is experience. They have lost a lot of that already this summer. So having someone like him in the dressing room could help a ton, even if he does not play a lot. Although he did not win much with the Rangers, he did captain them for a good while.
He also has elite output for a full-back. In 565 games for Rangers, he had 144 goals and 148 assists to his name. So, that is a goal contribution every 167 minutes. Most strikers would be proud of that!
Then again, would Tavernier be open to accepting the role of a cover option at this point in his career? Or would he be happier moving to the MLS and playing as a starter there?
