Rangers ‘should seal Lawrence Shankland transfer’ after Cyriel Dessers claim
Cyriel Dessers is a controversial figure at Ibrox, and the Rangers striker could potentially be replaced with Hearts forward Lawrence Shankland soon.
The Nigerian ace has been the first-choice number nine at the Gers for a few seasons, but he hasn’t convinced many fans of his qualities.
Dessers’ goalscoring numbers at Ibrox have been decent, yet supporters seem reluctant to trust the 30-year-old.
Shankland’s contract at Hearts expires at the end of the season, and the Light Blues have been seemingly urged to sign him this summer.
Shankland a more reliable backup than Dessers at Rangers
Shankland could potentially be a better backup option for the Gers than Dessers, Jonny McFarlane says.
The Scottish journalist would rather have the Scotland international on the bench than the former Cremonese forward.
| Competition (2024/25) | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Scottish Premiership | 31 | 13 | 2 |
McFarlane feels that if the Hearts striker is available for the right price, he has the quality to contribute at Ibrox.
The journalist wrote in the Rangers Review (2 May): “I remain convinced that he is available on a wage that wouldn’t break the bank, that he has the talent and hunger to perform well at his boyhood club and would bring in another Scot who understands the values of the club in an increasingly cosmopolitan dressing room.
“And if you need a goal with ten minutes to go, do you want Dessers or Shankland on the pitch? I know who I’m choosing.”
Dessers unreliable at Ibrox
Dessers was linked with a move away from Ibrox in the winter transfer window, and his agent claimed there were several offers for the centre-forward.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see speculation around the Nigerian ace’s future in the coming months.
Barry Ferguson has relied on the 30-year-old since taking over as interim manager, but the next permanent head coach may not fancy him.
Dessers has admitted he’d like to stay at Rangers, but incoming sporting director Kevin Thelwell may have a say in what the future holds for the striker.
The former Cremonese ace has undoubtedly managed some decent numbers this season, scoring 24 goals in all competitions, but many fans feel he’s unreliable.
Philippe Clement opted to drop the 30-year-old for Hamza Igamane, but the Moroccan youngster’s dip in form has seen the veteran centre-forward get back into the starting lineup.
It would make sense for the Light Blues to build their team around the 22-year-old striker, but Dessers may not be willing to play second fiddle in the upcoming campaign.
If the Nigerian ace departs in the coming months, the Gers should turn their attention to Shankland.