John Souttar admits he was close to joining Rangers in January from Hearts.
The Scotland international has pitched up at Ibrox after penning a pre-contract to join Giovanni van Bronckhorst's side.
Rangers tried to do a deal with Hearts six months ago to make the move happen after he put pen to paper to join this summer - but it never got over the line.
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Souttar has now opened up to Rangers TV for the first time since his arrival at the club and admits it's a very exciting time to join and he can't wait to get started.
He says he is ready physically and mentally for the challenges ahead as a Rangers player.
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He said: "It's been a long time since I signed the pre-contract in January but it is a brilliant day for me and my family to join Rangers.
"It nearly happened in January so it was obviously just dealing with that setback of it not happening and focussing on my football.
"It was difficult at the time but after it was over with, it was over with and I just gave 100 per cent focus on the task at hand at Hearts.
"I had that small injury problem a few months ago, but it was always in my head to get back for these Scotland games and get ready for the summer.
"It was tough at the start but it was sound after that.
"When I signed and met the manager and the staff in January - you know Rangers - I have been brought up in Scotland so I know the size of the club and what it means to people.
"When I met the manager it was exciting. He just gave me his thoughts. He was just in the door as well and he told me how he wanted to play.
"The last few months have been unbelievable for everyone at the club. The Europa League run was amazing, so it is a very exciting time to join the football club.
"I feel like I am ready physically and mentally to join Rangers. I know the expectation and challenge is there but I am really looking forward to it. It's an exciting time for me."
