Derek McInnes ‘to ruin Rangers transfer plans’ after Lawrence Shankland talks
Derek McInnes may hand Rangers a transfer blow in their potential pursuit of Hearts striker Lawrence Shankland.
The 29-year-old’s contract at the Jambos expires in the coming weeks, and he’s set to become a free agent soon.
It’s been suggested that Shankland’s bargain move to Ibrox next summer could possibly be in the cards, but it remains to be seen whether a move will be made.
If the Gers do plan on signing the Scotland international after he leaves Hearts, they’ll first have to hope he doesn’t end up staying at Tynecastle Park.
Rangers could miss out on free transfer as McInnes wants Shankland to stay
Shankland was being eyed at Ibrox last summer, and it would make sense for the Gers to pursue his signature once he becomes a free agent.
McInnes may ruin the Light Blues’ plans, though, as he’s set to speak with the 29-year-old striker about the prospect of extending his deal at the Jambos.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 43 | 9 | 11 |
Hearts appointed the ex-Kilmarnock boss recently, and he wants to work with the Scottish centre-forward next season.
Speaking on Premier Sports (26 May), the 53-year-old head coach said: “I’m due to speak to him again. I’ve made it clear that we’d like to work with Lawrence.”
Shankland a worthy replacement for Cyriel Dessers
Shankland would be a worthy replacement for Cyriel Dessers at the Glaswegian outfit in the upcoming transfer window.
The ex-Cremonese striker is attracting interest away from Ibrox ahead of next summer, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Gers cash in on him.
While the Nigerian ace ended as the top goalscorer in the Scottish Premiership this season, fans haven’t been convinced by his performances over the years.
Dessers has been inconsistent since signing for Rangers, and his wastefulness in front of goal often frustrates supporters.
Hamza Igamane has emerged as a talented prospect at the Gers, and the next permanent manager should focus on the Moroccan youngster’s development rather than counting on the 30-year-old centre-forward.
With the Nigerian striker’s potential departure, the Light Blues can sign Shankland to be the backup number nine next season at Ibrox.
While the Hearts ace has struggled to find the back of the net consistently in the current campaign, he’s shown his goalscoring abilities at Tynecastle Park previously.
The Glaswegian outfit’s potential pursuit of the 29-year-old may depend on whether McInnes can convince him to stay.