James Tavernier replacement emerging as Rangers make major Hampus Skoglund call

Rangers F.C. may already be laying the groundwork for life after club captain James Tavernier, with reports suggesting the Ibrox side are preparing a move for highly-rated Hammarby defender Hampus Skoglund.

The Glasgow club are understood to be exploring defensive reinforcements this summer following confirmation that Tavernier is preparing to move on from Rangers after a lengthy and successful spell at Ibrox. The veteran right-back announced last month that he would pursue a fresh challenge elsewhere, bringing an end to an era after more than a decade at the club.

However, Tavernier’s farewell was overshadowed by a disappointing end to the campaign. Rangers suffered a collapse in form during the closing weeks of the season, losing four matches and ultimately falling out of the Scottish Premiership title race. A damaging defeat in the Old Firm derby effectively confirmed another trophyless campaign for the Light Blues.

The circumstances surrounding Tavernier’s final home appearance also added to the disappointment. Hoping to say goodbye properly to supporters at Ibrox, the 34-year-old instead withdrew from the squad after learning that head coach Danny Röhl intended to start him on the bench for the clash against Hibernian F.C..

Replacing Tavernier will be one of the biggest tasks facing Rangers this summer — not only because of his experience and attacking output from right-back, but also due to the leadership role he held within the dressing room for so many years.

Despite fan frustration following the end of the season, Rangers decision-makers are reportedly prepared to back Röhl heavily in the transfer market. The German coach endured criticism after Rangers faded badly late in the campaign, but the club hierarchy remain committed to giving him time, particularly after inheriting a struggling squad when he arrived to replace Russell Martin earlier in the season.

Although Röhl initially revived fortunes with a strong run that included eight straight victories between December and January, it became increasingly clear that the squad required strengthening in several positions.

Right-back has now emerged as a major priority, and reports from Swedish outlet Sportbladet suggest Rangers have identified Skoglund as a serious target.

The 22-year-old defender has developed into one of Sweden’s brightest young talents after establishing himself with Hammarby IF. Rangers are believed to face competition from FC Schalke 04 for his signature, with the Bundesliga side also monitoring his situation.

Skoglund is reportedly available for the right offer, meaning Rangers may need to move quickly if they want to secure a deal before rival clubs step in.

The young full-back has impressed with his all-round game, combining defensive reliability with attacking contributions — a profile that could naturally suit the demands of replacing Tavernier. After breaking through during the 2023-24 season, Skoglund has become an increasingly influential player for Hammarby and even showcased his creative ability with a standout match in which he registered three assists.

Internationally, he has already represented Sweden at Under-21 level and continues to build a strong reputation despite narrowly missing out on selection for this summer’s World Cup squad.

While Rangers’ exact level of interest and any potential transfer fee remain unclear, Skoglund’s attacking instincts and long-term potential have already fuelled suggestions that the club may have identified him as a possible successor to Tavernier at right-back.