Rangers star Leon Balogun reportedly triggered a new Ibrox contract during the recent Europa League Last 16 second-leg clash against Slavia Prague at Ibrox [Scottish Sun].
Balogun joined the Gers on a free transfer in July 2020 on an initial one-year deal with ‘an option for a further year’.
There has been a degree of uncertainty regarding whether or not that option would be taken up.
Steven Gerrard suggested last month that an automatic extension was close to being triggered [Goal.com], though, and the Scottish Sun claims that moment arrived just prior to the international break.
They assert that in making his 23rd start of the season in all competitions against the Czech outfit, Balogun secured himself an extra year at Ibrox.
The Nigeria international has been an excellent addition to the group, with his pace, aerial prowess and ability on the ball all allowing him to contribute to many clean sheets and victories across the campaign.
Somewhat ironically, though, the game in which he earned the extension was arguably his worst to date in a Rangers shirt.
Balogun was off the pace against Slavia and shaky in possession. He was extremely fortunate not to give away a penalty just before the interval and was later sent off for a second bookable offence, ending the nine-man Gers’ chances of progression.
On the whole, though, few would argue that he doesn’t deserve to stay on and it’s suggested that an official announcement regarding his new deal will be made when he returns from international duty.
Both Balogun and Joe Aribo are set to feature for Nigeria on Tuesday in a Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Lesotho.
Meanwhile, a Rangers loanee is yet to make his debut for a Premiership club, almost six months after leaving Ibrox.
