Rangers to ‘definitely’ offer Leon Balogun new contract
Leon Balogun is coming to the end of his Rangers contract and a decision has been tipped as virtually made on the defender’s future this summer.
The 36-year-old has played 28 games in all competitions this season and was a regular in the Glasgow side’s Europa League run, which was ended at the quarter-final stage by Athletic Bilbao.
Balogun has been at Rangers since he re-signed at the beginning of the 2023/24 season, after a one-year stint at QPR.
Barry Ferguson’s side have had another disappointing domestic season, and are currently 17 points adrift of arch-rivals Celtic, who have already secured the title.
However in more positive news, 49ers Enterprises’ takeover at Rangers could be completed as early as next month, with an agreement close to being finalised.
‘Age doesn’t matter’ for Balogun – Alan Rough
With Balogun turning 37 next month, he isn’t getting any younger, but the Nigerian international has still provided a good account of himself this season, while the likes of Robin Propper have struggled badly.
The centre-back has forced his way back into the starting XI in recent months, after spending a spell on the sidelines.
| Matches | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards |
| 18 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
Speaking live on PLZ Soccer (12 May), former Hibernian and Scotland goalkeeper Alan Rough said that he believes Rangers should absolutely keep hold of the veteran defender.
When asked whether the Glasgow side should renew Balogun’s contract, Rough responded: “Definitely.
“Of all the people who have come in, I think he’s been very good.
“He’s been very good in the big games, seems to be a big-time player, and I don’t think age matters as long as you look after yourself.”
Summer of change for Rangers as Ferguson awaits decision
Rangers sacked Phillipe Clement back in February, with a poor run of domestic form proving decisive for the Belgian manager.
The Gers gave Ferguson the role on an interim basis, with the view to a more permanent appointment in the summer.
However, the impending takeover has left many around the club in limbo, including the 47-year-old interim boss, as no major decisions can be made before the new owners are in place.
There have been rumours that Ferguson may get the full-time role at Rangers, with the Scot gaining praise for the club’s strong showing in the Europa League.
There are a number of other contenders for the role, with Sean Dyche, Steven Gerrard, Marco Rose, and Russell Martin all being linked to the job.
The incoming ownership group has kept their cards close to their chest however, and it will still be a few more weeks before anything is finalised.