By Lindsay Herron

WALTER SMITH has moved to strengthen his squad by signing powerful French-Algerian centre back Madjid Bougherra from Charlton for £2.5million.

The 25-year-old international team-mate of Brahim Hemdani flew to Glasgow today and went through a medical at Murray Park before completing the deal tonight.

Bougherra can either play in the middle of the back four or as a defensive midfield player and Smith sees him as a strong addition to the group.

The French-born star was also being chased by West Brom but Rangers have struck a deal and the player has signed a four-year deal.

Charlton captured Bougherra three days before the end of the January 2007 transfer window.

The Addicks paid Championship club Sheffield Wednesday £2.5m for the centre-half as he became the third new arrival at The Valley under Alan Pardew's tenure.

Born in Longvic, France, Bougherra - nicknamed 'Magic' - is known for his uncompromising style at the back, as well as his willingness to bring the ball out of defence.

He made his name with FC Gueugnon and then joined Crewe Alexandra on loan at the end of January 2006.

Upon Crewe's relegation from the Championship (after playing 11 games and scoring once), he joined Wednesday - then bossed by Paul Sturrock - with the Owls parting with around £300,000.

He made 29 appearances for Wednesday before moving to Charlton 18 months ago.

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