Graeme McGarry believes Lawrence Shankland might replace Cyriel Dessers at Rangers during the winter transfer window.
The Herald journalist believes it would be sensible for the Gers to release the Nigerian striker before February 3rd, given the Scottish Premiership title is out of reach.
It will seemingly be up to Nils Koppen to decide on prospective replacements for Dessers, with the 29-year-old Hearts striker mooted as a possible budget alternative.
McGarry wrote in the print edition of The Herald [21 January, pg 5]: “For all Dessers’ flaws, he knows where the net is, even if it sometimes takes him a few tries to find it. However, the league no longer exists.
“If Rangers can get the 30-year-old off the payroll in January and bring in a great young forward with development potential at a cheaper salary, it would be reasonable.
“Or perhaps Lawrence Shankland, who might fill the same position as a short-term backup but at a cheaper salary. Now it is your turn, Nils Koppen. If Dessers does depart, the question becomes not only how the club will replace him, but also how the supporters will remember him.
Lawrence Shankland is the ideal substitute for Cyriel Dessers at Rangers.
Shankland, with his extensive experience in Scottish football, should be of interest to the Light Blues if and when they decide to strengthen their assault again.
The 29-year-old centre-forward has previously played for Aberdeen, Dundee United, and Hearts, and he is currently thriving at Tynecastle.
The Scotland international has appeared in 26 games across all competitions this season, scoring three goals and assisting five others.
While Shankland’s numbers might not be the best, Rangers might utilize him as a backup number nine if Dessers departs.
The Nigerian attacker has slid down the pecking order in recent months, but he demonstrated his value by scoring three goals as the Light Blues defeated Fraserburgh 5-0 in the Scottish Cup.
Hamza Igamane and Danilo appear to be ahead of the 30-year-old in Philippe Clement’s plans, but injuries to either would be a problem for the Gers.
Koppen has clearly pursued younger recruits at Ibrox, and it will be intriguing to see if Shankland is on the Glasgow club’s radar.
