Rangers seal Rabbi Matondo transfer as ex-Manchester City kid joins from Schalke
RANGERS have completed the signing of Schalke forward Rabbi Matondo.
The Wales international becomes Gio van Bronckhorst‘s fourth signing of the summer.
The 21-year old once sealed an £11 million move to Germany, but now moves to Ibrox with year left on his deal.
He told Rangers’ official website: “I am absolutely buzzing to have signed for a club as big as Rangers.
“I am just looking forward to getting on the pitch at Ibrox in front of the amazing fans we have here at Rangers and I am excited.
“This is a big club with a massive history, and I just want to create more memories and more history here at the club.”
Matondo has a strong pedigree, coming through the youth ranks at Manchester City.
But has also had loans at Stoke City and Cercle Brugge, where he cut his teeth in the men’s game early on.
He then sealed his big money move to Schalke 04 in the German Bundesliga.
But now Matondo has been confirmed to be joining Rangers on a FOUR-year deal.
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He was chased by several English clubs as well but has settled for the move to Glasgow.
He becomes the fourth summer signing at Ibrox after Antonio Colak and Tom Lawrence.
John Souttar also joined from Hearts after singing a pre-contract last January.
Manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst said: “I’m really pleased to welcome Rabbi to Rangers.
“I spoke last week about my desire to add more attacking quality to my squad, and we all believe Rabbi will do that.
“He will bring many strong attributes to the team, and I am really looking forward to seeing him in training this afternoon for the first time.”
Sporting director Ross Wilson said: “We have been quietly working to secure Rabbi’s signature for the last few weeks since the June internationals finished.
“We wanted to invest in a wide player this summer and we are excited with what Rabbi will bring to our group, with his speed and his general style of play.
“At 21 years-old there’s lots more to come from Rabbi and he will be a strong investment and addition to our group.”
The news came after Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo left Ibrox in a deal which could rise to £10m.
The English star also took to Instagram to give a touching farewell message.
He said: “I hold Rangers very close to my heart as they gave me the opportunity to showcase my talent on a bigger stage.
“Playing at Ibrox was a dream and I’m glad I got to experience it.”
“I’m happy I was able to play a part in the historic 55 league title winning season.
“I’d like to thank everyone associated with this great club for all you’ve done for me during my time here, you’ve always made me feel welcome and I’ve always had you full support.
“I’ve developed into an even better player, credit to the supporters who always had my back and stayed patient during the tough times. We created a lot of memories together, memories that I will carry with me throughout the rest of my career.
“I wish the club nothing but the best for the future and I’ll always be checking in.”
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page