Rangers seal loan deal for South African midfielder Bongani Zungu from Amiens

Rangers have sealed a transfer deadline day move for South African international Bongani Zungu.

Bongani Zungu has had to be patient over his move to Rangers.

The 27-year-old midfielder has joined on loan with the option to buy at the end of the season.

Rangers have been credited with an interest in the 29-time capped Bafana player at various times throughout the summer, but faced interest from Greek side Olympiakos for the midfielder’s signature as recently as last week.

The Scotsman understands the midfielder has signed a new deal with Amiens to help facilitate the move.

Sporting director Ross Wilson said : “Bongani is a player whose situation we have monitored throughout the window. We are excited to have him join Rangers.

“Following a difficult and prolonged period of lockdown in South Africa, it would have been hard for him to have joined us at an earlier stage of the window.

“However, we have kept an open and positive dialogue with Bongani and Amiens, and the structure of this agreement works well for all parties.

“The financial impact of coronavirus is being felt by all clubs in a market that has been like no other that I’ve ever experienced.

Seven players have arrived at Ibrox during the transfer window.

"We are pleased with the work we have done during the window across the squad and despite the clear challenges brought by the virus, our board have been keen to continue to invest in the development of the squad and the club.”

Steven Gerrard had made a midfielder his priority after bringing in forwards Cedric Itten, Kemar Roofe and Ianis Hagi on a permanent deal earlier in the transfer window.

He told the club’s website: “Bongani fits the profile of player that adds further strength and depth to our midfield. We made it clear that we wanted a player who will enhance our squad and starting XI. We believe Bongani does this.

“We wanted a dominant midfielder with the right profile who can enhance the team and compliment other players we have . We have monitored this situation all summer and now feel it’s the right time.

“Our board have been very supportive throughout the window with seven new signings. We believe we have a squad in place that will compete domestically and in Europe. This is a pleasing transfer for us and we look forward to Bongani joining up with the squad.”