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Glasgow Rangers of Leon Balogun on Friday, Steven Gerrard bringing the 32-year-old defender to Ibrox on a one-year contract with a further year’s option.
The Berlin-born ace, a Nigeria international with 31 caps, has spent the majority of his career in Germany, before beginning his journey in British football with a move to Brighton in 2018.
Balogun made 12 competitive appearances for the Seagulls before heading out on loan to Wigan in January, and penned a short team with the Latics to see out the English Championship season.
He made 11 league appearances for Paul Cook’s side and, with their season ending on Wednesday night, he arrives at Ibrox match-sharp and ready to step in following Nikola Katic’s injury.
“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,” Gerrard told the Gers .
“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.”
While playing for Brighton, Balogun was singled out for praise by Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
The Reds boss told prior to a game between the two sides in January 2019: “Balogun, I know from Germany as a fantastic boy to step in if he’s needed.”
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Balogun’s CV is impressive, having clocked up a healthy amount of , plus time in England’s top two divisions and, with the Super Eagles, appearances in the World Cup and .
Given how pleased Gerrard and Ross Wilson are to have secured his services, not to mention Klopp’s prior compliments, it looks as though Rangers have got their hands on a talented, experienced and match-fit player ahead of an important season – and for free.