Northern Ireland forward Kyle Lafferty has signed for Rangers for a second time.
A deal to bring the 30-year-old back to Glasgow from Edinburgh side Hearts was finalised this afternoon.
Lafferty, who previously spent four years at Ibrox from 2008 to 2012, has signed a two-year contract with Rangers.
Last month Hearts rejected a £200,000 bid from the Glasgow giants for the striker, however discussions continued between the two clubs. Rangers subsequently made an improved offer for his services and this afternoon the clubs finally agreed a transfer fee believed to be around £500,000.
Hours before the deal was thrashed out Rangers boss Steven Gerrard told the media the striker’s experience and passion would boost his team’s firepower. He also described the Fermanagh man as an avid Rangers fan.
During his first spell at Ibrox the forward made 138 appearances and scored 38 goals.
He won three Scottish Premier League titles, two League Cups and a Scottish Cup with Rangers.
The forward, who has won 67 caps and scored 20 goals for his country, joined Hearts last summer from Norwich City (two goals in 31 appearances).
During his time with the Canaries he had loan spells at Turkish side Caykur Rizespor and Birmingham City. Prior to that he played for Sion in Switzerland and Palermo in Italy following his first stint at Ibrox. Lafferty began his career with Burnley.
The Northern Ireland striker scored 19 goals for Hearts in 45 appearances last season. His final goal for Hearts was scored earlier this month when they defeated Celtic 1-0 at Tynecastle in the SPFL.
Lafferty could make his debut for Steven Gerrard’s side as early as tomorrow when Rangers play a Europa League qualifier against Russian side FC Ufa at Ibrox.
"When a player has his mind fully set on moving, it is difficult to reach an alternative conclusion," said Hearts owner Ann Budge.
"It is no secret that this has been a particularly difficult and drawn-out affair. But the deal will suit all parties."
