Boumsong confirms Gers deal

Skysports.com broke the story on Monday that Rangers had fended off competition from the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal and Internazionale to snare Boumsong.

The 23-year-old will be available on a Bosman free transfer at the end of the season and his availability put a string of Europe's leading clubs on red alert.

Liverpool had been long-standing favourites to snap up the centre half but Boumsong has somewhat surprisingly plumped for the Scottish champions.

Boumsong has revealed he spoke to both Liverpool and Arsenal regarding a move but their continued stalling on a deal prompted his decision to opt for Rangers.

He admits a visit to the club and a chat with France national coach Jacques Santini convinced him he would not be making a mistake in moving to Ibrox.

The coveted stopper also acknowledged the lure of guaranteed European football was a major tool in The Gers persuading him to head to Scotland.

"I spoke to Santini and he told me to have no worries about signing for Rangers," Boumsong told the Daily Record.

"He said they are a big club, just like Marseille, Inter Milan or anyone else. He said the most important thing is that I am playing in the Champions League or at least in the Uefa Cup.

"And I know I'll get that for sure with Rangers.

"I was very impressed by both David Murray and Alex McLeish and also by the way I was treated during my time in Scotland.

"They showed me they wanted me and were prepared to make me an offer.

"I have talked to other clubs like Liverpool, Arsenal and Inter Milan. But they keep on telling me to wait.

"And I'm not prepared to wait for them when Rangers are showing how much they want me in Glasgow."