Mark Wilson shares ‘amazed’ Lawrence Shankland verdict as Rangers January transfer mooted

The Scotland international has been repeatedly linked with a move to Ibrox, with the belief being that the Hearts striker would be able to solve the forward problem currently plaguing Philippe Clement’s side. While Hearts are expected to hold out for a big fee for the 28-year-old, former Celtic star Wilson believes they have no chance of keeping him at Tynecastle and expects him to make the move to Ibrox this January. Speaking on the Open Goal YouTube channel (3 January, 54:14) he said: “Not a chance [Hearts will keep him]. Without a doubt and see if I was Shankland, he’s got to be selfish.

He’s what 28 now? He’s got the Euros coming up, he’s banging in the goals. “This is his real opportunity that can give him the chance of a silverware and European football. I’d be amazed if Rangers don’t.” It does feel like these links between Rangers and Shankland have been floating around the rumour mill for months already even if there has been no direct indication that the Light Blues will look to act on their interest this month.

Shankland appears to offer a direct solution to the forward problem currently holding Clement back at Ibrox. The 27-year-old has scored goals everywhere he has played and has been in fine form this season, finding the net 13 times in 21 matches. With the chances Clement’s side creates, he would easily score 20 goals a season in a light blue shirt, something that the likes of Cyriel Dessers, Danilo and Kemar Roofe aren’t capable of managing. Those goals in the second half of the campaign could truly be the difference between lifting the Scottish Premiership this season or finishing second behind Celtic. Rangers must test Hearts’ resolve and make a bid for Shankland this month.

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