Rangers close in on Shankland as Rohl sets early return
Live blog roundup. Key Rangers line: continuing summer moves and discussions as clubs across Scotland and Europe shape squads.
Hotline debates Lawrence Shankland’s expected move to Rangers, hailed by fans as a proven scorer who ‘gets’ Ibrox, with chatter also linking Derek McInnes, as Rangers plan a rebuild under Danny Rohl.
Rangers face a battle and ‘serious money’ to land Leeds forward Joe Gelhardt after Hull’s promotion and desire to buy him. The 24-year-old hit 14 Championship goals on loan for the Tigers.
Rohl sets Rangers’ return for 19 June to prepare for Europa League third qualifying round on 6 and 13 August. Tight schedule rules out German friendlies with FSV Zwickau and Dynamo Dresden.
Analysis says Shankland is set for Rangers, highlighting elite underlying stats at Hearts in passing, recoveries and chance creation. Piece touts fit alongside Youssef Chermiti in Danny Rohl’s attack.
Right-back Zander Hutton, 19, impressed on loan at Hamilton with 36 games, 1 goal and 6 assists. With James Tavernier departing, the Rangers academy prospect could stake a claim in pre-season.
Report claims Shankland will join Rangers on a free, signing until 2028 with option. Medical due before Scotland duty. The Hearts captain scored 88 in 171 and won the 2023/24 Golden Boot and player awards.
Rangers-linked Dundee defender Luke Graham, 22, cancels holiday after Steve Clarke calls him from Scotland under-21s to train with the senior squad before the US trip, aiming to impress for a future cap.
Report claims Rangers are progressing talks to sign a European-based Celtic target, with Andrew Cavenagh prioritising recruiting ‘leaders’ in a summer squad revamp.
Rangers passed on Ike Ugbo in 2023. Sheffield Wednesday signed him for about £2.5m after a loan, but he failed to score in two league seasons under Danny Rohl and later Pedersen, proving a costly error.
Rangers plan talks with free agent Dan Neil after his Ipswich loan. A winter target, the 24-year-old midfielder is available after leaving Sunderland. Shankland move to Ibrox also nearing completion.
