Rangers bolster defence with Algerian star

According to a report on BBC Sports, Scottish giants Rangers have beaten off competition from West Bromwich Albion to sign Algerian defender Madjid Bougherra from Charlton for £2.5 million.

 

The 25 year old was wanted by Hawthorns boss Tony Mowbray as well as Spanish club Real Betis but has agreed to a four year deal at Ibrox.

 

“I came to football late but I want to progress and keep getting better – it is my dream to do good things for Rangers,” he told the club website.

 

French-born Bougherra, who can also operate in midfield, joined Charlton from Sheffield Wednesday for around the same transfer fee just over a year ago. He claims that international team-mate Brahim Hemdani was instrumental in convincing him to come to Rangers.

 

“I spoke to Brahim about coming here and he spoke very well about the club, the facilities and the fans,” added Bougherra.

 

“He pushed me to come here so I am very pleased to have signed for Rangers. They are a big club and I want to get into the team quickly.”

 

He also admits that the lure of playing in the Old Firm derby and Champions League football was also critical in his decision.

 

“The team has done well in the Champions League and I have seen the atmosphere in the stadium during the derbies with Celtic. It looks fantastic and of course I would love to be involved in those matches this season.”

 

[Source: BBC Sports]