Lawrence Shankland to Rangers could still happen after 'second thoughts'

Lawrence Shankland to Rangers could still happen after 'second thoughts'

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Transfer Correspondent AUTHORITY Former Sky Sports and ESPN FC correspondent who specialises in global recruitment, contract negotiations, and high-velocity transfer breaking news. FOCUS Exclusive reporting, domestic and international transfer markets, and elite-level insights. THE INSIGHT Pete utilises a Global Network of Industry Sources to deliver verified, first-to-market reporting. His “Deep-Lens” analysis connects the dots between boardroom strategy and pitch-level recruitment, providing a level of transfer clarity that goes beyond surface-level rumours.

Published on

Rangers could still pursue a deal to sign Hearts striker on a free transfer in the summer, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O'Rourke revealed that interest in the 29-year-old has lingered and he remains on the list of potential targets at Ibrox.

Despite this, any deal is now thought to be unlikely before the 3 February deadline, and would be more likely to take place for free in the summer.

However, there have been "second thoughts" at Rangers given Shankland's age and disappointing form, and they could instead focus on signing a younger option.

Rangers weigh up Lawrence Shankland deal after new twist

Given the difficult financial position at Ibrox, Rangers have shifted their attention towards possible free transfers to bolster Clement's squad in the summer.

Shankland, meanwhile, has been a long-term target and is a boyhood Rangers fan, with his availability on a free seen as a bonus to the Glasgow side.

So far this season, he has found the net just three times across 27 games for Hearts in all competitions - a far cry from last season's 31 in 47 which earned him the SPFL player of the year award.

As a result, doubts have emerged at Ibrox about his suitability, while the signing would clash with Nils Koppen's plans to bring in younger players and eventually sell them for a profit.

For more Rangers and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.

www.footballinsider247.com