Rangers completes transfer deal for Scotland national football team’s forward

In a summer filled with Rangers transfer rumors, the silence around Lawrence Shankland has been particularly noticeable.

Leading into the January transfer window, the media was abuzz with links between Rangers and the prolific Hearts forward. Given Shankland’s 31-goal season, the interest was well-founded.

Following Scotland’s disappointing Euro 2024 performance, many expected increased speculation regarding Rangers’ interest in Shankland this summer.

Now, for the first time this window, a report has shed light on the situation, suggesting both Rangers and Shankland are in a holding pattern.

### Shankland to Rangers Update

Rangers are actively seeking striker reinforcements this summer. One such acquisition is imminent, with Moroccan forward Hamza Igamane nearing a move to Ibrox. However, the £1.7m deal for Igamane is unlikely to be the last addition up front, as Philippe Clement aims to strengthen an attack that underperformed last season.

With Cyriel Dessers also being linked to a move to Greece, there could be significant changes in the squad this window. Yet, Lawrence Shankland’s name has barely surfaced, until now.

The Daily Mail reports that the Hearts striker would “jump at the chance of a move to Ibrox.” However, Rangers are reluctant to meet Hearts’ current valuation, knowing Shankland will be available for free next summer. Consequently, a transfer this season appears “unlikely,” and it remains to be seen if another club will swoop in for the Scotland star.

### Are Rangers Missing a Transfer Opportunity?

This report comes after Philippe Clement acknowledged Rangers’ need for more experience in the squad this summer. The club has signed several promising young players but has also lost numerous key first-team members.

With 32-year-old Scotland international Kenny McLean among those expected to join, the situation with 28-year-old Lawrence Shankland will intrigue fans. The lethal Hearts forward knows the league, has a proven scoring record, and understands the expectations at Ibrox as a Rangers fan.

If another transfer window passes without Rangers securing Shankland—and if the club’s forward line struggles again this season—there will likely be increased scrutiny over the missed opportunity.