Alfredo Morelos bids farewell to Rangers after signing for Santos

The 27-year-old has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the South American giants, three months after ending his six-year association with the Gers and leaving Ibrox as a free agent.

Morelos had initially expressed his desire to continue playing in Europe and was linked with a number of clubs across Spain, Italy, Turkey and Russia.

The Colombia international appeared to be closing in on a move to Fenerbahce last month, with The Scottish Sun reporting that the striker had flown to Turkey ahead of undergoing a proposed medical.

However, the transfer was allegedly called off last week after Fenerbahce's Michy Batshuayi decided to stay with the Turkish giants.

Morelos has now opted to continue his career closer to home after agreeing to head back to South America to link up with Santos, who are seeking to win their first major trophy since 2010.

Morelos has taken to social media to bid farewell to the Rangers supporters after a memorable six years in Glasgow, scoring 124 goals in 269 appearances across all competitions.

A statement read: "Rangers! My dear soulful team. I want to say the time has come to close an unforgettable chapter in my life. Over the past six years I have experienced intense emotions and achieved incredible goals, and built incredible memories with you.

"We won a league together, celebrated every victory as a family. And overcame obstacles with determination and courage. Every time I wore this jersey, I did it with pride and gratitude.

"During this time I not only grew as a player but also as a person. Watching my daughter grow while wearing these colours has been an incredible gift. The unity and support from all of you every step of the way has inspired me to give my best on and off the field.

"[Reaching] a Europa League final was a dream come true. The journey was tough, but every sacrifice was worth it. Together we showed that we are a formidable club and we will always fight with heart.

"To the teammates who became brothers, thank you for every shared moment. To the coaches and the coaching staff, your guidance and trust led me to achieve my best version. To the management employees, and all the fans your unwavering support gave us strength to go far.

"Today, I close this chapter with gratitude in my heart and the certainty that I will always carry these colours with me wherever I go. This is not a final farewell but a see you later filled with hope. See you in the future Rangers. I will always be ready to be there for my friends in Royal Blue."

Morelos, who was Rangers' top scorer in four of his six seasons at Ibrox, won the Scottish Premiership and Scottish League Cup during his time in Glasgow, and he departs the Gers as the club's all-time record goalscorer in European competition with 29 goals.

The Colombian has already begun training with his new Santos teammates, and he could be in a position to make his debut when they play host to Cruzeiro in the Brazilian top flight on Thursday.