Senior Rangers figures flag issue amid Lawrence Shankland transfer links
Lawrence Shankland has been doubted as a replacement for Cyriel Dessers by senior figures at Rangers, according to the Rangers Review.
Joshua Barrie wrote on Wednesday (24 July) that sources had shared how some senior figures at Ibrox have questioned whether the Scotland international forward was a “natural fit” for Philippe Clement’s preferred style of football.
The Gers have a long-term interest in signing the Hearts captain and are reportedly preparing a £3million bid for the striker [Daily Record, 23 July], who was crowned the PFA Scotland Players’ Player of the Year last season.
However, Barrie’s report highlighted that Dessers averaged the second-highest pressures per 90 (24.6) of any Premiership striker last season, a quality Clement is keen to retain in his new-look side, and there are question marks as to whether Shankland could play that way.
Rangers left with huge Lawrence Shankland transfer question
The Gers find themselves in a Catch-22 when it comes to the futures of Shankland and Dessers this summer, as they weigh up which of the two strikers would be the best fit for Clement this season.
Dessers has been roundly, and somewhat rightfully, slammed from all corners for his profligacy in front of goal – a problem with which Hearts had no such worry last season as Shankland fired 31 home.
However, with the numbers pointing towards Dessers being more compatible with Clement’s setup, the Belgian has a huge decision on his hands over whether to stick or twist on the Nigeria international.
In an ideal world, Clement would love the option of selecting both strikers, but with the Light Blues in a sell-to-buy transfer environment, they need to raise money in order to fund an approach for Shankland.
With Serie A side Cagliari reportedly keen on signing Dessers [Tutto Mercato Web, 10 July], collecting a potential fee of £4.2m for their number nine may be too good for the Gers to turn down, with several other incoming transfers needed.
Should the bulk of that fee go towards a Premiership-shattering move for Shankland, his goals could bring a title to Ibrox, but it remains to be seen if he’d be a better fit than the forward he replaces.
In other Rangers news, the club have been urged to push the button on new signings if three outgoing transfer are confirmed.
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