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Balogun lured me to Rangers – Dessers
Peter Akinbo
Nigerian striker Cyriel Dessers has disclosed that former Rangers defender Leon Balogun played a pivotal role in enticing him to join the club, expressing his anticipation for European football at the renowned Ibrox stadium, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The 28-year-old forward, who has previously showcased his skills in Belgium, Holland, and Italy, became Michael Beale’s sixth signing of the summer transfer window, completing his move from Italian Serie B outfit Cremonese.
Dessers revealed that conversations with manager Michael Beale and fellow Nigeria teammate Leon Balogun offered him valuable insights into life in Glasgow, particularly after witnessing Rangers’ performances in European competitions.
The Nigerian forward also sought input from his national team colleague, Leon Balogun, who spoke positively about the club and this further solidified Dessers’ decision to pursue the move.
“I spoke with my teammate from Nigeria’s national team, Leon Balogun, he was very positive about the club, the coach, the people around, the staff and the city. So yeah, that for me was an affirmation to go through it,” Dessers said.
“You see it here at Ibrox with the stadium lights on in the evening it is very special, and I can’t wait to witness it in person,” he told RangersTV.
“The history of the club, the fans, the stadium, it’s massive here but next to that I look at what is here at this moment. I had really good talks with Mr Beale about his plans, the idea of what he wants on and off the pitch and I thought that could be a really good fit for me and for the team, so I am happy to be here,” he siad.
Dessers expressed his delight at joining Beale’s squad but acknowledged that the negotiation process had been long and demanding.
Speaking to Rangers TV, he said, “It’s a big relief to finally be here. There’s been some long and stressful days but a great feeling to be here finally.
“The first interest came already a long time ago, I think four years ago. It’s always been in my head a little bit. To finally be here now it’s really nice. I think the first talks were around May so nice to be here now,” Dessers said.
Dessers scored seven goals in 29 appearances despite Cremonese’s relegation from Serie A last season and it’s hoped the 28-year-old will be able to bring that goalscoring form with him to Glasgow.
The Nigerian wasn’t prolific for the relegated Serie A outfits last season, but his reputation in Holland is good and he could adapt well to the Scottish Premiership.