Rangers have extended the contract of defender Leon Balogun for one year, after his departure from QPR. The 35-year-old is making a comeback following an ankle injury to Leon King on Tuesday, which will keep the young player out of action for a substantial period.
Having secured victories in both the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup throughout his two seasons in Glasgow, Balogun openly expressed his intention to continue his career with the club. However, he departed last summer as his contract was not extended. The Nigerian national, who spent the previous season at Loftus Road, possesses valuable experience from his time in the Bundesliga and Premier League, which aligns with the expertise sought after by Gers boss Michael Beale.
He is the seventh summer signing for Rangers and expressed his excitement upon joining the team at their training camp in Germany. He stated, "To be honest, I am filled with excitement. It feels a bit surreal but also very real. I am incredibly happy to be back at Rangers - it truly feels like returning home."
Ever since my departure, I have been consistently showered with immense appreciation and affection from the friends I had made in Glasgow and within the club. Being back now feels nothing short of delightful.
I am fully aware that settling for second place is never an option, and I am well-prepared for the rapid judgments that will arise if we do not perform up to par. It is high time for us to buckle down, give our utmost efforts, and guarantee that we achieve the necessary outcomes.
Beale stated, "I have complete faith in Leon, both as a player and as an individual. He is widely respected within the club, and we are delighted to welcome back someone of his calibre, with his wealth of experience and exceptional leadership skills."
Naturally, he will quickly assimilate back into the club, fully comprehending our work methods and playing style.
Being a free agent facilitated a swift move, allowing him to join us in Germany. It was truly heartening to witness the warm reception he received from both the players and the staff upon joining us at the camp.
Rangers may still bring in more players this summer, as they continue to show interest in Jonathan Panzo from Nottingham Forest and Jose Cifuentes from Los Angeles FC.
In addition to potential new signings, the club is also considering offers for certain first-team players such as Antonio Colak, Glen Kamara, and Scott Wright.
Rangers travel to Kilmarnock on opening day
Rangers will start the 2023/24 Scottish Premiership season with a trip to face Kilmarnock at Rugby Park, in a game live on We.
Beale's side will start the Champions League third qualifying round on either August 8 or 9. Afterward, they will face Livingston at Ibrox on August 12 in a league match. The second leg of their European tie is scheduled for August 15.
If Rangers advance to the play-off round, the first leg will be held on either August 22 or 23, followed by the second leg on August 29 or 30.
The campaign's first two Old Firm matches will be broadcasted live on We cameras, with the initial one set for September 3 and the second on December 30. The third encounter before the split is slated for April 6.
Following Rangers' game against Kilmarnock, the winter break will commence on January 3 and conclude on January 19.
Following the round of matches on April 13, the division splits in half, with the top six teams playing one another once and the bottom six teams doing the same. The final day of the season will take place on the weekend of May 18/19.
Follow the summer transfer window with Sky Sports
The transfer window opened on June 14, but who will be on the move this summer ahead of the deadline at 11pm on September 1 in England and at midnight in Scotland?Following the round of matches on April 13, the division divides into two, with the top six teams facing each other once and the bottom six teams doing the same. The season's last day is scheduled for the weekend of May 18/19.
Follow the summer transfer window with Sky Sports
The transfer window started on June 14, but who will make a move this summer before the deadline on September 1 at 11pm in England and midnight in Scotland?Keep yourself informed about the most recent transfer news and rumors by visiting our dedicated Transfer Centre blog on We' digital platforms. Additionally, you can stay updated on team transfers, analysis, and all the latest news on We News.
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