Rangers seal deal for Anderlecht striker Kemar Roofe

Rangers have signed Anderlecht forward Kemar Roofe.

The Ibrox club have been negotiating with the Belgian side over the past few days over a permanent transfer of the 27-year-old.

Steven Gerrard had been keen to bring in a striker as speculation continues over Alfredo Morelos’ future, while Jermaine Defoe is currently sidelined through injury.

The club have now announced Roofe’s arrival, with the striker signing a four-year deal.

Rangers manager Steven Gerrard told the club website: “Kemar is recognised throughout Europe as an intelligent attacker with an eye for goal. I look forward to working with him and recognise his potential to further progress our starting XI.

“He has experienced the pressure and expectation at Leeds United and has played on the continent which will stand him in good stead for his time at Ibrox.”

Sporting director Ross Wilson said: “Kemar was a primary target going in to this transfer window and we are absolutely delighted that he has chosen to join Rangers.

“He is a player that has been admired for some time by Steven and the staff and we are all very excited about what he can add to our team.”

The Englishman began his career with West Bromwich Albion and had several loan deals before a switch to Oxford United saw his profile rise. Roofe then moved to Leeds United where he had a successful three years before Anderlecht signed him last year.

“I am delighted to join Rangers and look forward to meeting up with my new teammates,” Roofe said.

“Rangers are a huge club, with ambition and I know this is the right fit for me to progress my career.

“I am looking forward to experiencing Ibrox and am excited to play in Europe.”