Lawrence Shankland sends message as Rangers transfer speculations concludes

Rangers are wasting no time in signing players after a rather tepid start to the transfer window.

Russell Martin is preparing for a crucial Champions League double header with Panathinaikos, which will mark his first competitive European tie.

Joe Rothwell and Emmanuel Fernandez have signed permanently, while Max Aarons has joined on loan from AFC Bournemouth.

Now, Lawrence Shankland has spoken out after he opted to sign a new deal with Scottish Premiership rivals Hearts.

Lawrence Shankland gives reasons for Hearts transfer decision

Rangers were linked with a move for Shankland as his contract expired with the Edinburgh club this summer.

The Gers faced stiff competition for his services, with West Brom and European clubs also keen on the 29-year-old.

However, he eventually put an end to speculation by signing a fresh three-year contract with Derek McIness’ side.

Now, Shankland has posted a message on Instagram (3 July) explaining how he feels now that he has put pen to paper.

Alongside an image of him donning a Hearts kit, he said: “I’m happy with my decision, and the family are happy as well. I’m just looking forward to getting stuck in again.”

The striker did not enjoy his best season of goalscoring in the league last season, although he demonstrated his ability as a team player with 16 goal contributions.

However, Shankland does boast an impressive Scottish Premiership record, with 74 goal contributions in 138 appearances.

Rangers miss out on Shankland, but is it a blow?

While the Bears have missed out on one of their targets, his recent goal record suggests it is not a significant blow.

Of course, there is debate around whether the forward would have been a regular starter under Martin, and perhaps that is why he has stayed in the capital.

As it stands, the Glasgow club have the 2024/25 top scorer in Cyriel Dessers, although his future remains in doubt.

Either way, Rangers will almost certainly move on to other forward targets regardless of what happens with Dessers.

While Shankland did not hit the highs he would have wanted last season, he still would have offered something to the Gers.

However, in the long run, missing out on the 29-year-old is not a bitter blow.