Lawrence Shankland will soon be able to talk to other clubs about a potential Bosman move from Hearts next summer.
But will Rangers make their move?
It doesn’t seem like the same no-brainer it would have a year or two ago as everything Shankland touched turned to gold.
This season he has found the net just once and looks completely out of confidence even though some of his all-round performances have been okay.
Rangers have already been told that a transfer swoop for the 29-year-old is in still fact a no-brainer on a fee.
The man himself recently dropped the biggest hint yet on his Hearts future as he was quizzed on his future with his deal winding down.
Rangers should sign ‘best striker’ Shankland
Ross McCormack has taken on a similar view to Stephen McGinn on what Rangers should do about Lawrence Shankland.
The former Gers man thinks the Hearts number nine is the best striker in the league and, even though the goals haven’t been flowing, still rates his performances.
McCormack waxed lyrical about his touch and general forward play.
Speaking on Open Goal, he was asked if Rangers would still be interested and said: “Oh yeah.
“In the last few games where I’ve watched Shanks, every part of his game apart from his goal scoring has been great. His hold-up play, his link up.
“I think touch, link-up and stuff he’s easily the best striker in the SPL (Scottish Premiership).
“It’s got Rangers written all over it. I think he is destined to be a Rangers player.”
Asked if Shankland is a better player than Celtic’s Kyogo, he added: “Easy. Shanks’ touch and awareness I think is top.”
Andy Halliday gives Clement take
The podcast also discussed the general situation around Rangers just now and Philippe Clement’s future.
And Andy Halliday reckons the Ibrox board would be keen to sack the Belgian, with only finances potentially saving him.
He said: “I think it’s financially. They’ve just given him a new deal.
“I think they would want to (sack Clement), personally.
“Clement’s record in the last 35 games in all competitions, win rate is 48 per cent. 17 wins, eight draws, 10 losses.”
