Former Rangers assistant coach Michael Beale has set transfer rumours in motion concerning Super Eagles defender Leon Balogun.
Beale, who is now the Head Coach at English Championship side Queens Park Rangers (QPR), was effusive in his praise of Balogun who is departing Rangers this season.
The 33-year-old Nigerian international is now a free agent, having been released by Rangers after his two-year contract with the Scottish giants expired this summer without renewal.
Rangers release Leon Balogun
On Friday, Rangers took to their official Twitter handle to confirm that Balogun and English goalkeeper Andy Firth would be leaving the Ibrox Stadium this season on account of his contract expiring.
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Rangers tweeted: "Rangers can today confirm that @LeonBalogun and @andyfirth1996 will depart the club following the expiration of their contracts. Everyone at Ibrox wishes Leon & Andy well for the next move in their career."
Balogun played a total of 65 matches in two seasons for Rangers, scoring two (2) goals and providing three (3) assists for the Gers in that time.
His greatest achievement with the Scottish club is winning the 2020/21 Scottish Premier League title under Steven Gerrard as the Head Coach and Beale as the assistant coach.
QPR manager Michael Beale lauds Leon Balogun
After Rangers confirmed the departure of Balogun, Beale took to Twitter to praise the impact of the Super Eagles star on the team.
Now QPR's manager, Beale specifically pointed out the leadership qualities of Balogun both on and off the pitch.
Beale tweeted: "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 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻"
Beale moved with Steven Gerrard to English Premier League side Aston Villa and served as the Liverpool legend's assistant coach there also.
After 10 years as a youth team manager and assistant coach, Beale took up his first Head Coach role at QPR ahead of the 2022/23 season, taking over from Mark Warburton.