RANGERS have signed United States international Maurice Edu in a £2.6million deal subject to a work permit.

The midfielder watched Saturday’s 2-0 Clydesdale Bank Premier League win over Hearts at Ibrox, before agreeing personal terms.

The 22-year-old has now committed himself to a five-year contract after a deal was struck with Major League Soccer and Rangers are hopeful the transfer can be concluded with a successful application for a work permit.

Edu has six full international caps after coming through the youth ranks. He has now returned to his homeland to prepare for a World Cup qualifier in Guatemala, along with new club-mate DaMarcus Beasley.

The talented youngster came highly recommended by former Celtic and Rangers star Maurice Johnston, who was head coach of Edu’s former club, FC Toronto, before assuming the joint role of manager and director of football.

The capture comes hot on the heels of Pedro Mendes’ £3million transfer from Portsmouth, with Steven Davis also set to join in a permanent move.

Davis – in Scotland for Northern Ireland’s friendly at Hampden on Wednesday – impressed while on loan at Ibrox in the latter part of last season.

Rangers saw off Hearts in a controversial match ay Ibrox. Summer signing Kyle Lafferty opened the scoring in the first half with his first goal for Rangers.

In the second period, Hearts were denied a penalty when the ball struck an arm.

Rangers then sealed the win with a spot-kick from Kris Boyd.

Hearts star Saulius Mikoliunas was red-carded for two bookings.