Soccer
Nigeria and Rangers versatile defender, Leon Aderemi Balogun, has admitted he’s not opposed to moving the the Saudi Pro League, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 36-year-old has played more minutes for the Gers this season than he managed throughout the entirety of the last campaign, proving his value for Philippe Clement’s side.
Balogun has scored one goal and provided an assist in 19 games across all competitions for the Blues this season, but his contract at Ibrox runs out this summer.
Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!
Quizzed about the possibility of moving to the Saudi Pro League at the end of his current contract at Ibrox, Balogun mentioned the decision will bank on so many things beyond his power, but ultimately revealed he’s not opposed to playing in the Middle East.
“I’m not going to run away. Honestly, if I get something that is right for me, and I also have to think of other people, then, definitely, I’ll consider it, but at this moment, it hasn’t been on the card so far.
“I think I’m known to be straight to the point and obviously, the money is a big aspect in this whole conversation. I think last year, there was a big rush, and they’re building something. They’re probably working on something towards the next five to six years, hoping it will be an attractive league,” the former Brighton and Hove Albion defender said in an interview with Ay Suga Naija Lifestyle.
“We shall see if I’ll be part of that project in Saudi. I think they’re trying a different approach, maybe doing something long-term, not to compete with the Premier League, but to make it a respectable league.
“The money is a big factor, and I’m sure they’re not shy, and they’re very aware of it. If I were them, I would use it as well,” Balogun concluded.
Balogun last played for the three-time Nigeria in June 2022, and in total has racked up 46 caps for the Super Eagles since making his debut in 2014, and has admitted he’d love a return to the Super Eagles team when they resume their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification in March.
The Super Eagles play against Rwanda on the 19th of March before flying home to take on Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, on the 22nd of March.
Adefolahan Guerreiro
Adefolahan is a multilingual journalist and writer at Soccernet Nigeria.
With a track record of involvement in College sports, Adefolahan is focused on crafting engaging football content and utilising his language skills and extensive sports knowledge to enhance content accessibility for a global audience.
He has interviewed Nigerian stars like Finidi George, Junior Lokosa, and Abraham Onahi Ogbu.
Read MoreAdefolahan Guerreiro