GLASGOW — Rangers are closing in on a significant summer signing, with an agreement in place to bring Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland to Ibrox. The 30-year-old striker, a boyhood Rangers fan, is set to sign an initial two-year deal through 2028, with the option of a further 12-month extension.

A Move Years in the Making

The deal is expected to be finalized before Shankland joins up with the Scotland squad for the upcoming World Cup. While Rangers opted against a move for the striker when he was a free agent last summer, the club has moved decisively this time, utilizing a clause in his current contract at Tynecastle Park to secure his services.

Shankland has been a prolific force in the Scottish Premiership, netting 16 league goals this past season to help Hearts secure a spot in Champions League qualifying. His consistency is well-documented, having scored 24 league goals in each of the two preceding campaigns.

The "Scottish Bias" Strategy

The acquisition aligns with the stated goals of Rangers' hierarchy including chairman Andrew Cavenagh to implement a recruitment strategy with a distinct "Scottish Premiership bias."

Following a third-place finish under head coach Danny Röhl and the departure of long-serving captain James Tavernier, Rangers are prioritizing leadership and local experience. With Tavernier's exit, there is significant speculation that Shankland, given his proven leadership at Hearts and deep affinity for the club, could be a candidate to take on the captain's armband at Ibrox.

A Proven Goalscorer

Rangers supporters know exactly what to expect from their new signing; Shankland was a thorn in their side all season, scoring four league goals in just three appearances against the Ibrox club.

  • Career Highlights:

    • Early Career: Rose through the ranks at Queen's Park.

    • Prolific Spells: Record-breaking goalscoring runs at Ayr United and Dundee United.

    • Hearts Tenure: Scored 88 goals in 171 appearances over four seasons, becoming one of the most reliable strikers in the country.

Beyond Shankland, Rangers remain active in the market, with reported interest in Dundee defender Luke Graham and free-agent midfielder Dan Neil as head coach Danny Röhl looks to overhaul his squad for a title push next season.