Hearts have offered Lawrence Shankland a new contract that would see the Rangers-linked striker become the club’s highest paid player in over a decade.
In fact, the Jambos are so determined to keep the Scotland international, 28, at the club, they’ve actually improved the salary from a previous offer earlier in the transfer window.
Contracted to Gorgie until the summer of 2025, Hearts want Lawrence Shankland to put pen to paper over a new deal until 2027, effectively ending speculation about a move to Rangers.
This comes after Rangers scouts reportedly watched the striker net yet another stunner in the weekend’s win over Aberdeen.
Rangers-linked Lawrence Shankland offered contract
Reports of Lawrence Shankland’s latest contract offer come from journalist Barry Anderson, who has been writing for the Edinburgh Evening News .
Whilst the report acknowledges that Hearts are yet to receive any formal transfer interest in Shankland this window, it’s claimed a “number of clubs” are monitoring the Premiership hitman.
Anderson believes that Shankland has been set a deadline of Wednesday night to sign a new deal, with Hearts only open to negotiating an exit should a bid land for “several” millions of pounds.
Rangers have been strongly linked with a move for Lawrence Shankland – who is a boyhood bluenose – throughout his career but a transfer to Ibrox has never materialised.
Hearts set for busy transfer window
Hearts meanwhile are expected to be busy in the final few days of the transfer window.
No fewer than three new players are expected to join the club, with Steven Naismith looking to consolidate third place in the Premiership table.
The club have already struck a pre-contract agreement with Ross County playmaker Yan Dhanda, a move Hearts hope to complete this January.
Livingston full-back James Penrice is also a target, whilst Charlton midfielder Scott Fraser has been strongly linked.
Interestingly, none of these names are strikers as Rangers look to bolster their squad and Hearts offer Lawrence Shankland a new contract.