Defender Madjid Bougherra turns down Rangers extension
Last updated on .From the section Football
Rangers defender Madjid Bougherra has turned down a two-year contract extension and expects to leave Ibrox in the summer.
The Algeria international, who signed from Charlton in July 2008, has one year remaining on his current deal, but wishes to return to England.
"Rangers offered me a chance to extend my contract by another two years, but I politely refused," said Bougherra.
"I have spent three wonderful years in Glasgow and I want a new challenge."
Bougherra has been injured since Rangers' 2-1 extra-time win against rivals Celtic at Hampden in the Co-operative Insurance Cup Final last month.
He was sent off in the previous Old Firm encounter at Celtic Park, recieving an automatic one match ban, but is likely to face further punishment from the Scottish Football Association after grabbing referee Calum Murray's arm as he attempted to show him a red card near the end of the game.
Rangers have started discussions with the player in a move to keep him in Glasgow, but he has declined the offer of a new deal.
"I have one year left of my contract with Rangers and everything depends on discussions I have with the people in charge of the club," said Bougherra.
"If I do stay another year, there will be no problem on my side because I've only known good times with Rangers.
"Now if there is a great challenge for me elsewhere and the club is okay with it, I think I will be leaving."
While a return to England appeals, Bougherra insists he has other options open to him.
He added: "My priority is to play in the Premier League, for sure. Now if it does not happen, I shall go and play in either Turkey or the Gulf countries.
"But for now, I'm still at Rangers and we still have a lot to play for this season. I've not left Rangers yet."
