Tavernier set to agree new deal to keep him at Ibrox until 2021

James Tavernier’s impressive form this season is to be rewarded as he closes in on agreeing an improved deal with Rangers, it is understood.

The right-back has been arguably the club’s stand-out performer so far this campaign and Ibrox chiefs are eager to tie him down on a longer contract.

The Englishman’s current agreement expires in the summer of 2019 but a new deal by which the 26-year-old should commit himself to Rangers until 2021 has been placed on the table.

He has yet to sign the agreement, but talks with director of football Mark Allen are at an advanced stage and Rangers are confident the former Newcastle and Wigan defender, pictured, will sign soon.

Tavernier was signed by former boss Mark Warburton from Wigan for around £200,000 back in 2015 and has gone on to become a favourite of the Ibrox legions with his rampaging runs forward and deadly crossing ability.

He was even given the hon- our of captaining Rangers on Sunday as they gunned down William Hill Scottish Cup opponents Ayr United 6-1 at Somerset Park. Speaking last month, Tavernier insisted he has unfinished business in Govan. He told several newspapers: “I’m fully committed to Rangers. I’m still learning here and I’m still growing here. I’m still under contract for another 18 months so I’m really happy here.

“I came here to win trophies. Also, in all the Old Firm games I’ve played, I’ve only been on the winning side once so far (in the 2016 Scottish Cup semifinal). I want to win some more of them. I still have unfinished business as a Rangers player.

“It’s totally down to the club if they want to extend my contract. I’ll have to wait and see.”