Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland completes ‘dream’ move to boyhood club Rangers – UK Times

Rangers have announced the signing of Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland, who has completed a “dream” move to his boyhood club.

The Scotland international, 30, scored 88 goals in 171 appearances in his four years at Hearts and last season led their charge towards a first Scottish league title since 1960.

But Hearts fell short of Celtic following a final-day defeat at Parkhead and Shankland has now sealed his move to Rangers, who finished third last season.

The striker has previously come close to signing for Rangers, including last summer when he was out of contract, and will join the Ibrox club before the World Cup.

He arrives on a two-year deal, with an option for an additional year, and for an undisclosed fee.

“I am delighted to be here and to have this opportunity,” Shankland told Rangers TV. “Rangers is my boyhood club, and it has always been a dream to play here, so I was really keen to get it done.

“A lot of hard graft has gone in to get to this point, and I’m just really happy.

“The club are in a position where they want to get back to winning silverware more regularly, and I want to be a big part of that, so that’s what I have come here to do.”

Rangers boss Danny Rohl said: “We are delighted to have Lawrence join Rangers. He is a player with proven quality, leadership and work ethic, and his goalscoring record in Scotland speaks for itself.

“He understands the demands and expectations that come with playing for Rangers, and we believe his character and experience will be a huge asset for the group. I wish him well at the World Cup this summer, and look forward to welcoming him back to Glasgow during pre-season.”

A Hearts statement said: “Heart of Midlothian can confirm that Lawrence Shankland is leaving the club to join Rangers. The striker will make the move to Ibrox on undisclosed terms once the transfer window opens on June 15th.

“We thank Lawrence for all of his efforts during his four years in Gorgie.”