Back for good

Rangers sign Ianis Hagi from Genk as attacking midfielder makes permanent transfer

RANGERS have signed Ianis Hagi on a permanent deal from Genk.

The Romania international joined Steven Gerrard's side on loan in January with an option to buy.

Hagi impressed for the Light Blues netting three times in 12 appearances during his temporary switch.

The 21-year-old netted a memorable Europa League double in Rangers' comeback victory over Braga at Ibrox.

And now he has put pen to paper to return to the club on a full-time basis.

The Romanian, capped ten times by his country, started his career with Viitorul Constanta.

He earned a switch to Italy with Fiorentina before returning to his former club in 2018 and helped them win the Romanian Cup.

Last summer he joined Genk but left for a six-month loan stint in Glasgow on the final day of the January window.

Speaking after the move was confirmed, Hagi revealed he rejected other clubs to return to Ibrox.

He said: “I am excited about re-joining the squad for pre-season and putting on the famous shirt once again.

“There was interest from other clubs, but my priority was always to return to Glasgow and play for Rangers.

“I really enjoyed my loan spell at Ibrox and look forward to playing in front of our fans very soon, but for now I hope all of the Rangers fans and your families are staying safe and well.”

Boss Steven Gerrard added: "“Ianis is recognised throughout Europe as a young, exciting player so to have him join Rangers on a permanent basis is great news.

“I was able to develop a relationship with Ianis very quickly, he is a pleasure to coach as he is willing to learn and become better every training session.

“He has already experienced the pressure and expectation of Ibrox, I know he is ready for next season.”

Ibrox director of football Ross Wilson thanked Genk for their 'flexibility' and 'creativity'.

He said: “We are delighted that Ianis has chosen to continue his career at Rangers.

I have had numerous conversations with Ianis and his representatives and he made it clear that continuing with Rangers was his absolute focus.

“He is not only a huge talent but also a top young professional who is determined to be successful.

We are sure our investment in him will be an effective one as we believe in his ability now whilst also being excited that at 21 years old there is significantly more development to come from him.

When Ianis arrived in January we quickly developed a strong relationship with him and I know how much Steven and the coaches enjoy working with him every day.

“The formality of the transfer won’t complete until the transfer window opens, but we look forward to welcoming Ianis back to Glasgow in the next few weeks alongside the rest of the first team squad.

“Finally, I thank KRC Genk for their openness, flexibility and creativity in all of our discussions.

“We secured an exclusive option in January and in recent weeks we have worked with Genk to find a new solution that works for everyone now, given how much the world has changed in the last few months.”

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