Lawrence Shankland transfer: Rangers ‘can replace’ Cyriel Dessers in ‘bargain move’

Lawrence Shankland could replace Cyriel Dessers at Rangers in the winter transfer window, Graeme McGarry says.

The Herald journalist believes it would be logical for the Gers to get the Nigerian striker off their wage books before 3 February as the Scottish Premiership title is out of their reach.

It will seemingly be up to Nils Koppen to decide on potential replacements for Dessers, with the 29-year-old Hearts striker suggested as a possible bargain option.

McGarry wrote in the print edition of The Herald [21 January, pg 5]: “For all Dessers’ faults, he does know where the net is, even if it often takes him a few attempts to find it. But the league is gone.

“If Rangers can get the 30-year-old off the wage bill in January and bring in a talented young forward on lower wages but with the potential to develop, it would be logical to do so.

“Or, maybe even the likes of Lawrence Shankland, who could fulfil the same role as a shorter-term backup option, but for a lower salary. Over to you, Nils Koppen. If Dessers does leave, the question then is not only over how the club will replace him, but how will the fans remember him?”

Lawrence Shankland perfect replacement for Cyriel Dessers at Rangers

Shankland, with his immense experience of Scottish football, should arguably be of interest to the Light Blues if and when they look to reinforce their attack again.

The centre-forward has played for the likes of Aberdeen, Dundee United and Hearts over the years, with the 29-year-old thriving at Tynecastle.

In the current campaign, the Scotland international has made 26 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and providing five assists.

While Shankland’s numbers might not be the best, Rangers could use him as a backup number nine if Dessers departs.