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Rangers boss Steven Gerrard has insisted he will not allow club captain James Tavernier to leave on the cheap amidst growing interest in his services, as quoted by Sky Sports.

What's the word?

Gerrard has led Rangers to an impressive revival this season and, having excelled on the Europa League stage, is now showing signs of improving the club's domestic form after inflicting a first defeat of the season on SPL leaders Hearts at the weekend to disappoint those who used a Genting promo code on the match.

The Glasgow side are playing their part in what is shaping up to be an intriguing battle at the summit of Scottish football this season in the hunt for the title and European spots, although their form is attracting suitors.

Premier League side Brighton are said to be expressing an interest in Rangers captain James Tavernier and Gerrard had his say on the links after the victory over Hearts, telling Sky Sports the Seagulls will have to pay a hefty sum to land the right-back.

What was said?

"I know the CEO at Brighton (Paul Barber) very well. I used to work alongside him at the FA. He's got my number and he knows where I am. But he best go to the owners and ask for an awful lot of money if he wants James Tavernier.

"That goes for any CEO, any owner, any club that wants my captain. They best go to the bank and get an awful lot of money out - or he's not going.

"I would be surprised if teams don't come (for Tavernier) because he's been absolutely fabulous for me. Every player has their price but if the price is not right then he does not go anywhere. He stays as my captain.

"All my players are for sale. Let's get it out in the open. Every single one of my players is for sale. They have all got a price. But they are not the old prices. It's the new prices. So if you want them then come with loads of money and you can have them."

A good move?

Rangers do not have the finances to fend off interest from Premier League sides but they can use any interest to their advantage, with Gerrard's stance concerning Tavernier and the rest of his squad likely to go down well amongst the supporters.

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Tavernier, at 26, is approaching the prime years of his career and Rangers have no need to approve a departure unless a significant fee is offered in the market - but the club should do their best to ensure there are no major departures in January.

At the end of the season, reasonable offers may be considered as Gerrard could look to bring in some of his loanees on a permanent basis but losing a player like Tavernier in January would provide a huge blow to his side's ambitions.