Lawrence Shankland jets back as ‘Rangers to hijack transfer’ for Russell Martin
Russell Martin could potentially soon have a new striker at Rangers with the signing of Hearts centre-forward Lawrence Shankland.
The ex-Southampton boss was hired after the Gers looked at multiple candidates to bring success back to the Glaswegian outfit, and he’ll undoubtedly need a much more competitive squad to bring trophies to G51.
Shankland has been linked with a move to Ibrox for several months now, but the likes of West Brom in the English Championship have joined the race for his signature.
Martin may lose Cyriel Dessers this summer, with the Nigerian ace acknowledging interest from Greece, giving the Light Blues a reason to push for the 14-capped Scotland international.
Rangers must push for Shankland transfer as decision to be made soon
Shankland has flown back from his honeymoon and will make a decision on his future soon, according to the Record.
The news outlet reports (June 9) that the 29-year-old is set to consider his options, as his contract at Hearts expires at the end of June.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 43 | 9 | 11 |
It’s been claimed that the centre-forward will meet his agents in the coming days to consider his options, with English, European and Middle Eastern clubs interested.
Derek McInnes also wants the Scottish ace to stay, but the Gers have an opportunity to swoop in and hijack the transfer.
Shankland a decent backup addition for Martin at Ibrox
Shankland’s move to Ibrox has been talked about for quite some time, and it would make sense for the Gers to get him.
The 29-year-old might have had a poor season, but fitness issues didn’t help his cause.
In the 2023/24 campaign, the Scotland international scored 31 goals in all competitions for Hearts, and it wasn’t surprising to see the Light Blues wanting him last summer.
Dessers lost his place in the Rangers starting lineup under Philippe Clement, but Barry Ferguson strangely preferred him over Hamza Igamane.
The Moroccan ace broke onto the scene after some impressive displays, but his opportunities dwindled under the interim head coach.
Martin should focus on developing the 22-year-old centre-forward and making him the first-choice striker, which will undoubtedly lead to Dessers wanting an exit.
Danilo has been unreliable at Ibrox since signing for the Gers, and a new backup number nine should be on Kevin Thelwell’s agenda.
Shankland is an experienced striker who’s done well in the Scottish Premiership, and pulling off his bargain transfer makes sense for the Glaswegian outfit.