Lawrence Shankland: Rangers to agree ‘huge’ deal as ‘major concerns’ eased at Ibrox
Lawrence Shankland looks set to sign for Rangers in what is seen as a “huge” coup for the Ibrox club after chasing the striker’s signature for years.
The 30-year-old will be allowed to leave Hearts for free due to a clause in his contract, and will finally make the move to Glasgow in a major boost to their plans.
Not only will Rangers add a new striker with plenty of experience in the Scottish Premiership, but they are also weakening a direct rival ahead of next season’s title race.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown warned Football Insider that Rangers were in danger of becoming Scotland’s third club, but have taken a step in the right direction.
Danny Rohl is determined to strengthen his squad this summer with work already underway to bring in new signings ahead of a crucial transfer window for Rangers.
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VISIT THE RANGERS TRANSFER HUBWhat does Lawrence Shankland’s move mean for Rangers?
Football Insider shared reports on 24 May that Shankland is set to join Rangers with the move potentially hours away after an agreement was reached.
The Scotland international has been a long-term target for the Ibrox club, having been a boyhood Gers fan, and is now closing in on a move to Ibrox.
| Lawrence Shankland | 2025-26 Stats |
| Appearances | 34 |
| Starts | 33 |
| Minutes Played | 2944 |
| Goals | 20 |
| Assists | 6 |
For Rangers, the deal will represent more than just having signed a key target, as they aim to close the cap to Hearts with investment into the squad this summer.
“I’ve had concerns about Rangers for a while now,” Brown told Football Insider.
“They’ve been slipping further and further back, and this season they were outperformed by Hearts, so they’re very much at risk of becoming the third team there.
“They have some serious concerns about their players and their results not just this season but for a few years in a row now.
“The only way they can avoid that is by strengthening in the transfer window, they need to get players in who can help them close that gap.
“Shankland has had a very good reputation for a while in Scotland and Rangers have been big fans of his, so it’s perfect timing for them to get that deal done.
“Not only does it strengthen their team, but it weakens Hearts as well, so that’s a huge boost for them.
“It’s a real coup if you can sign the best players from your rivals and that’s exactly the sort of thing Rangers need to kickstart their improvements.”
What is next for Rangers after Shankland deal agreed?
Signing Shankland from Hearts would be an excellent way for Rangers to kickstart their window, but they are aware they must push on to further strengthen their squad.
Following the addition of a new striker, there are a number of positions in Rohl’s side which need bolstering, and work is ongoing behind the scenes.
Football Insider revealed on 22 May that Rangers are planning to back Rohl with major changes to his squad as both incoming and outgoing deals will take place.
Despite questions being asked about the manager’s future in the Ibrox dugout, the board have been keen to stick with him as part of a long-term project.
There is a feeling that new additions will be needed to raise the level of the squad while some deadwood could be let go to raise funds and clear space.
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