Leon King makes Rangers injury return vow as club close in on transfer solution amid defender's woe

Leon King has vowed he'll be back stronger than ever after his pre-season injury blow.

Rangers confirmed that the young defender would be missing for a "significant period of time" after suffering an ankle injury during their training camp in Germany. It's a big blow to the 19-year-old, who made 26 appearances for the Gers last season and was invited to train with Steve Clarke's Scotland squad this summer with a view to getting him prepared for international football further down the line.

But those ambitions have been put on hold for now as he concentrates on getting back to full fitness. In response to Rangers confirming the news, King tweeted: "Gutted Not what anyone wants in pre season , but I’ll be back stronger soon Thanks for the messages everyone , take care." The development leaves Michael Beale a touch short of central defensive options if he is to adopt a back three this season.

King was promising back up to Connor Goldson, John Souttar and Ben Davies, but his absence means another body will be required for the heart of defence.

But a quickfire solution could be at hand. Rumours surrounding an Ibrox return for Leon Balogun have been swirling and Record Sport understands the Nigerian could reunite with Michael Beale this week. A year after leaving Ibrox when his deal expired at the end of the 2021/22 season, the 35-year-old is available on a free transfers after leaving QPR.

And he could link up with Beale in Glasgow again after a few months under him in West London. A season-long contract for the experienced defender would make sense for all parties, especially after King's injury.

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