Rangers linked striker offered new and improved deal – which could see him become club’s highest ever earner
Lawrence Shankland is said to be of interest to several clubs, including Rangers.
Lawrence Shankland, a transfer target for Rangers, has received an improved offer from Premiership rivals Hearts to extend his stay.
The club’s earlier offering would have made Shankland the highest-paid player in Gorgie in over a decade. The Edinburgh Evening News has learned that the latest offer includes an additional compensation boost.
Shankland leads the division in goals scored this season, with 14 from 23 league outings. The 28-year-old also scored an astonishing 24 goals in 37 games last season, making him one of the most prolific scorers in Scottish football over the last two seasons.
The Hearts forward’s current deal at Tynecastle extends until 2025, and other clubs, notably Rangers, are keeping a close eye on the situation.
The Gers, in particular, are looking to add a striker following Abdallah Sima’s injury in the Africa Cup of Nations, which is expected to keep him out for much of the second half of the season.
The Edinburgh giants have made no secret of their desire to maintain Shankland as they continue to compete for a spot in Europe next season. Steven Naismith’s side is now third in the league and will compete for the Scottish Cup in the second half of the season.
Tynecastle authorities have yet to receive a formal transfer offer for the 28-year-old and will only initiate talks if a deal of several million pounds emerges, according to reports.
The Evening News understands that Hearts want to sign Shankland until at least 2027. The forward did not agree to the initial terms provided to him, and he now has until Wednesday to respond to the new contract offer.
However, it remains to be seen whether Shankland will sign a new contract or if more negotiations will take place.
Shankland’s current form makes him one of the most sought-after strikers in Scottish football, but Hearts are unlikely to trade him this transfer window unless they receive a large offer.
Leave a Reply