BREAKING: Bala Devi set to sign for Scottish giants Rangers FC

In a landmark deal, Indian women's football superstar Bala Devi Ngangom is all set to sign for Scottish side Rangers FC, The Bridge can confirm. In doing so, Bala will become the first Indian woman to be given the opportunity to play fully professionally outside India.

Having represented the country for over 14 years, Bala is the most experienced footballers in the team. Not only that, she is easily the best footballer in the women's national team. She is also the highest goal scorer in the Indian Women's League (IWL) across all seasons.

The 29-year-old forward had made a trip to Glasgow for a week-long trial earlier last year where she got to train with the main squad and also feature in a practice match. “I got five days to practise with them and also had the opportunity to play a practice match with them. It was a bit difficult to train in sub-zero conditions but getting to see first hand and experiencing their training regime was an amazing experience,” Bala had told TOI on her return.

According to our sources, Bala has managed to impress the Scottish club. It has also been learnt that Bengaluru FC (owned by JSW Group), who are in a partnership with Rangers, did their part in facilitating the move. While other details are scarce, the announcement is likely to happen sooner rather than later.

Indian women's football team coach Maymol Rocky had also hinted at Bala's impending move to Rangers in an interview on the sidelines of the IWL 2020 launch event. When asked about foreign exposure and its importance for individuals, she replied, "Bala has already given her trials at Rangers and is looking forward to joining the club. I think it's a great opportunity and eventually, it will come back to help the national team only."