Newcastle United Welcomes 292 Goal Contribution Star Back To The Club 12 Years After He Left

Newcastle United have reportedly been linked with a move for former academy star more than 12 years after he left St James’ Park.

The Magpies are said to be considering a move for the experienced full-back, who came through Newcastle’s academy and made a handful of first-team appearances under former manager Alan Pardew.

After leaving Newcastle, Tavernier went on to feature for Wigan Athletic before joining Scottish giants Rangers in the summer of 2015.

During his time at Ibrox, the defender became a club legend, scoring 144 goals and providing 148 assists in more than 560 appearances. However, he left Rangers this summer after his contract expired and reflected on an emotional 11-year spell with the club.

Speaking earlier this year, Tavernier said:

“This club has been a huge part of my life and my family’s over the past 11 years. It’s given me so much, both on and off the pitch, and from the moment I arrived I’ve always tried to give everything I had to represent it in the right way.

“To have had the honour of being made captain of this club since 2018 is something I will always be incredibly proud of. Leading this team out, wearing the armband and being trusted in that role has meant more to me than I can properly put into words.”

He added:

“We’ve shared the highs and the lows together and some truly incredible moments along the way. To all the players I’ve shared the pitch and dressing room with over the years, thank you. The bonds we’ve built, the battles we’ve been through and the memories we’ve created are what make this game so special.”

With the new season approaching and Tavernier still searching for a new club, reports from TeamTalk claim Newcastle could offer the defender a return to Tyneside more than a decade after his departure.

However, the same report states MLS side Charlotte FC are also increasing their interest in signing Tavernier. The club, who recently signed former Newcastle winger Allan Saint-Maximin, are believed to have head coach Dean Smith as a long-term admirer of the full-back.

Turkish clubs Istanbul Basaksehir, Kasimpasa and Amedspor have reportedly held talks with Tavernier’s representatives, while Everton and Aston Villa are also said to have made enquiries over a possible deal.