Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun has been unveiled as a player of Scottish giants Rangers Football Club.
The Gers confirmed Balogun’s capture on a free transfer from English side Brighton and Hove Albion on Twitter on Friday and he joins international teammate Joe Aribo at the Glasgow side.
The 32-year-old who spent the last seven months at Championship side Wigan Athletic has signed a one-year deal with Rangers and the club has the option of extending his stay for another season.
Balogun announced his departure from Brighton with a farewell message on Thursday, announcing that news on his “next football adventure” was coming “very,very soon”.
That adventure will now take place across the border with Steven Gerard’s team.
“I am pleased to secure the signature of Leon. He is an experienced centre half who will add strength and depth to our squad,” Rangers manager Steven Gerrard told Rangers Website.
“His experience in the Premier League as well as his international pedigree strengthens our squad and will assist in the development of our young defenders.
“Leon has just finished a round of competitive fixtures with Wigan so will hit the ground running. He’s a positive and bright character, and we are looking forward to his influence around the group.”
Balogun moved to Brighton on a free transfer from German Bundesliga side Mainz in the summer of 2018 but struggled for playing time making only 12 appearances in two years.
He joined Wigan on loan in January in a bid for playing time but despite shoring up the Latics’ defence line and inspiring the team to a long unbeaten run, Balogun could do little to prevent Wigan from getting relegated after they were ducked 12 points for falling into administration
“Leon impressed Steven and I with his enthusiasm and excitement to join Rangers from the moment we first spoke whilst the staff at Brighton and Wigan couldn’t have spoken any higher about his personality and abilities,” Rangers sporting director Ross Wilson added.
