Balogun speaks on his rumoured exit from Rangers

Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun has opened up about his future at Rangers, as uncertainty grows over his contract situation at the Scottish club, Footynaija.com reports.

The 36-year-old’s current deal is set to expire this summer, and the club is yet to show any clear intention to extend it.

Balogun returned to Rangers in July 2023 on a one-year contract after leaving the previous season. His second stint at Ibrox has seen him play a support role in defence, specifically during a season where the team battled for domestic silverware.

Amid rumours of a possible exit, the experienced defender has made his feelings known about staying in Glasgow. In his words:

“I’ve wanted this for ten years—to be a Rangers player—ever since I first walked through the doors. Everyone knows how much I love this club. I embrace everything it stands for. It’s really close to my heart, so if I can stay another season, I’d be more than happy,” he said in a report by the Nation.

Balogun has enjoyed a successful spell with the Scottish giants. He was part of the squad that won the 2020–21 Scottish Premiership title, going unbeaten across the league campaign under Steven Gerrard. He also helped Rangers lift the 2022 Scottish Cup, and more recently, featured in the side that secured the 2023–24 Scottish League Cup.

The former Wigan and Brighton man was also in the Rangers squad that reached the 2021–22 UEFA Europa League final, narrowly losing to Eintracht Frankfurt on penalties after a 1–1 draw in Seville.

There has however been no formal offer of a contract extension from Rangers. The club appears to be reviewing its squad options heading into the 2025–26 season, with a possible focus on younger players.

Balogun remains hopeful about staying at Ibrox. However, the final decision rests with Rangers.