“One of the best free transfers” – Super Eagles star’s departure draws top reactions from Gers fans

The Light Blues supporters are holding nothing back in their praise of one of their Nigerian imports after the club announced his departure

Glasgow Rangers fans have expressed their sadness and disappointment at seeing Nigeria international defender Leon Balogun leave the club following the expiration of his contract.

The 2022 Europa League finalists had on Friday confirmed Balogun’s exit from the Ibrox Stadium following the expiration of his contract.

The Super Eagles star’s departure brings to an end a successful two-year stay in Glasgow.

Balogun joined Rangers on a free transfer in the summer of 2020 and was instrumental as the Gers wrestled the Premiership title from a dominant Celtic last year. It was also the first league triumph of Balogun’s career.

This season, the 33-year-old claimed the Scottish Cup winner’s medal and added a Europa League runners-up medal to that collection.

After 37 appearances in all competitions and two Europa League goals, Balogun would have hoped for a contract extension.

And many Rangers supporters were even more shocked, sad, or disappointed that the club did not keep one of their ‘best free transfers in recent years’ for at least one more year.

“One of the best free transfers we’ve made in recent times, nothing but love for big Leon.”

“He’s one of those players you just want to keep forever Good luck Leon.”

“Incredibly harsh on Balogun.”

“Leon Balogun was outstanding for @RangersFC – both on the pitch but also around the changing room. He is a “personality” leader who gives his team mates so much positivity and guidance on a daily basis. Take a bow @LeonBalogun”

“Gutted about Balogun.”

“Really surprised at this. Considering the way Balogun has talked about how much he loves playing for Rangers, I thought he would be staying for at least another year.”

“Leon balogun always gave 100% and I’d liked to have seen him stay another year, but that’s how it goes. Onwards and upwards.”

“Pretty disappointed that Balogun is off, but I do understand why.”

“Gutted for big Balogun. I know he wanted to stay and I think he’d have been a useful guy to have as a backup.
But I hope this means Leon King is going to get the game time he needs & this is to make space for the kid. 30mins here & there. A start in early round cup games etc.”

“@TalalAlHammad32 @LaticsOfficial get this done. Best defender post prem era hands down.”

“Feel for Balogun. I genuinely think he felt a lot for the club and was looking to stay.
Best of luck to him in his next move and thanks for the memories.”

“Leon Balogun was a very good player for us and should be remembered fondly, always gave his all

Andy lived the dream & bought into Rangers, an extremely nice lad also

Best wishes to both for their service.”

Balogun arrived at Brighton in the English top-flight in 2018 after three years at Mainz.

But his Premier League dream did not turn out as hoped as he endured a tough spell struggling to break the centre-back partnership of Dunk and Duffy.

A short stay at Wigan followed in 2020 before he switched to Rangers that summer.