FORMER Southampton FC Women forward Katie Wilkinson has joined Scottish giants Rangers.

The 29 year old has followed fellow former Saint Laura Rafferty up north to join Rangers on a two-year deal.

Wilkinson is a two-time Women's Championship top goalscorer and was nominated for the English Women’s Championship Player of the Season award last season.

She netted eight Championship goals for Marieanne Spacey-Cale's side, the joint most alongside Sophia Pharoah, who could also depart on a free transfer.

Wilkinson had been offered a new deal at St Mary's, but an agreement could not be reached.

Upon joining Rangers, Wilkinson said: “I am really excited; it is an absolutely massive club and they have made me feel so welcome since being here.

“I think the ambition is massive here; the club want to win things and that lines up very much with the values that I have.

“I want to win games of football, leagues, and, for me, I just hope that I can contribute to the success that the club can have.

"In football, you have to move away from home to find happiness on the pitch. If that's something I need to do, then it's a sacrifice I'm willing to make.

"I'm excited for a change. I've been around the Championship for a long time. To come into a new environment in Scotland is something that I'm craving right now.

"I've been at Southampton with Laura for two years now. I know what she is like around the training ground.

"I know she will fit in really well. I hope that I can do that too. I'm looking forward to getting to know them all right now."

Southampton have previously confirmed that England youth international Ella Morris has left, having also been offered a new deal.

Pharoah was the third player Saints remained in negotiations with ahead of the 2024/25 season, but there has been no update on her status.