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Rangers are interested in signing Daniel Opare this summer if James Tavernier secures a move away from the club, as reported by The Scottish Sun.

What’s the story?

The paper reckon that the Gers captain is a target for English Premier League sides Aston Villa and Brighton in the upcoming transfer window, meaning the Ibrox side will need to enter the market for a replacement if he is sold.

High up on their list of potential candidates to do that is Royal Antwerp defender Daniel Opare, according to the report.

The Ghanaian international is said to be available for around £500,000, with his contract expiring at the Belgian club next year.

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The loss of Tavernier

Behind Alfredo Morelos, Tavernier was Rangers’ most important player last season.

Although always recognised as a predominately attacking talent, even from right-back, he brought his contribution to new levels in 2018/19, scoring an excellent 17 goals and assisting 20 times in all competitions for Steven Gerrard’s side.

It’s no surprise then that teams are reported to be keen on him this summer, but it will leave Rangers with a massive hole to fill if he does move on.

In a single season, 37 direct goal contributions is massive, even taking into consideration his penalty duties, and the Ibrox side will need a player, either within their current squad or from outside, to step up and take that responsibility of winning matches on their shoulders.

Can Opare do that?

The 28-year-old does have good experience, at a good level too, but there would be concerns about his ability to play a similar game to Tavernier if he was signed.

As shown by Transfermarkt, the player has failed to register a single assist since the 2013/14 season and has scored just twice in his entire career.

There were spells of uneven appearances in Turkey and Germany during that time, but it is a rather concerning blot on his record, especially as a direct comparison to the Rangers captain.

It’s unfair to expect the same kind of output as Tavernier from a right-back, but surely Rangers can find a more creative option to replace the player if he leaves Ibrox?

Steven Gerrard may well have to do better if he wants to mount a serious trophy challenge next season.