Scotland international goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin has departed Sunderland and signed for Scottish giants Rangers. Sunderland’s official website confirmed that the 32-year-old will officially leave on June 30th when his contract expires. Rangers confirmed the signing via their own official website. He has signed a two-year deal.
Goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin Signs for Rangers
Black Cats Offered Contract Extension
Sunderland had offered their number one goalkeeper of two years a new deal to stay at the Stadium of Light. The club issued their retained list early on Tuesday morning and McLaughlin was on the list. The club had hoped that he would agree to a new deal; however, according to the Chronicle, McLaughlin’s agent advised the League One club that he wanted to double his client’s wages.
Goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin Swaps Wearside for Glasgow
Having seen any deal to stay at the Stadium of Light become unlikely, the Scotland goalkeeper has found himself back in the Scottish Premier League. McLaughlin previously had a spell at Hearts; however, he will now be looking forward to challenging for honours at Ibrox.
After completing his move, the now-former Sunderland shot-stopper had this to say to the Rangers official website: “It’s a very proud moment for myself and for the family. It is great to be back up here in Scotland and we are very proud to have made the deal happen and I am really looking forward to now getting back to football and starting my next chapter here with an amazing football club.”
Rangers Sporting Director Delighted With Signing
Rangers Sporting director Ross Wilson could not hide his delight at securing the services of the Scotland international. He told the Rangers website: “Jon joins Rangers with excellent experience. For the past seven seasons, he has been present in almost every game, displaying a huge consistency of performance that is so important for a Rangers goalkeeper.
“He will provide strong competition to the outstanding Allan McGregor and we know that Jon’s character, personality and professionalism will be important for the group for at least the next two years.”
Phil Parkinson Will Need to Replace McLaughlin Quickly
Sunderland boss Phil Parkinson, like their fans, will be disappointed to see their number one leave. However, McLaughlin is now in the past and Parkinson must now look to recruit a new keeper. The Black Cats have former Coventry City keeper Lee Burge at the club. Burge proved a capable deputy for McLaughlin last season when called upon. Can Burge become number one? Time will tell. Even if he does, Parkinson will require competition for the goalkeeper position.
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