Super Eagles star could make a surprise return to Glasgow Rangers in January

Three Nigeria international stars left the Ibrox Stadium this summer, but one could be on his way back barely six months later

A section of the Scottish media is agog with the possibility of seeing Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun return to Glasgow Rangers months after leaving the club.

Rangers parted ways with Leon Balogun in July following the expiration of the defender’s contract.

The club decided not to take up their option to extend Balogun’s contract by a year despite the Nigerian star’s contribution to the Gers’ recent success.

Balogun, together with compatriots Joe Aribo and Calvin Bassey, was a key part of the Rangers squad that lifted the Acottish league title in 2021 and reached the final of the Europa League in May.

But following his emotional departure from Rangers, Balogun moved back to England to sign a one-year deal with Queens Park Rangers.

Aribo and Bassey also left the Ibrox for Southampton and Ajax Amsterdam, respectively.

The departure of the trio has, however, coincided with the negative turn in the fortunes of Rangers.

The Gers have been knocked out of the UEFA Champions League and are out of the Premiership title race after falling nine points behind champions Celtic.

This week, Rangers sacked Dutch manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst.

Queens Park Rangers manager Michael Beale is the frontrunner to replace the former Feyenoord boss.

Beale convinced Balogun to join QPR a few months ago on a free transfer, and the tactician has helped the Nigerian rediscover his best form.

They have both enjoyed success, with QPR hovering just outside the playoff zone in 7th place with 31 points from 15 Championship matches.

Beale will, however, need to be confirmed as Rangers boss before the door can be opened for Balogun to return to the club.