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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Ben Banks

Rangers transfer exit confirmed as 'physical presence' departs Ibrox after Champions League rumours

Nikola Katic has left Rangers for FC Zurich as his now former club bid him a heartfelt farewell.

The Croatian defender has been looking for a new employer this summer after a loan spell at Hadjuk Split in his native Croatia last season. Champions League side Maccabi Haifa had been linked as a potential landing spot for him but he has instead joined the Swiss champions, who will play Europa League group stage football this season after beating Hearts at the play-off stage.

Katic joined Rangers in 2018 but his progress in light blue was derailed by a serious knee problem and he was not able to reclaim his squad place. Marinko Jurendic, head of sport at FCZ, comments on the transfer of the centre-back: "In Nikola we were able to sign a central defender with international experience who will strengthen our defence with his physical presence, his header and his great personality."

READ MORE: Rangers placed among top 10 teams in world football by global ranking as Celtic beat Barcelona

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In a statement, the Premiership club said: "Rangers can confirm the departure of Nikola Katic to FC Zürich on a permanent deal for an undisclosed fee.

"Defender Katic immediately bought into the club since signing, he went on to make 59 appearances in blue and scored six goals across the Scottish Premiership, Europa League, and League Cup including a winner at Parkhead in 2019.

"Niko leaves a Ranger with everyone at Ibrox wishing him well for the next move in his career."

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