Rangers and Celtic were both linked with Lawrence Shankland earlier this season – but his own manager doesn’t really see a move to a Scottish side.
Shankland was a man in demand last summer. He became a free agent after smashing 62 goals in 73 appearances for Ayr United, and many expected a move to England.
Instead, he stayed in the Scottish Championship by joining Dundee United. With 28 goals in all competition, Shankland has continued to find the net with great regularity whilst helping United win promotion.
Shankland even became a Scotland international, and scored in a 6-0 win over San Marino. The 24-year-old is likely to attract major interest this summer, based on speculation earlier this season.
The Daily Record noted that Celtic and Rangers were both scouting Shankland. Given that Shankland grew up supporting Rangers, a move to Ibrox made some sense.
Dundee United are under little pressure to sell after promotion, but Shankland may be wanted by the Old Firm duo if they lose Odsonne Edouard and Alfredo Morelos respectively.
Now though, United boss Robbie Neilson has told BBC Sport that the market for Shankland’s signature is in England, rather than in Scotland despite those Celtic and Rangers links.
The English market isn’t even open yet, so Neilson isn’t too worried yet. He also thinks that Shankland should prove himself in the top flight of Scotland before making a big move to England.
“There’s interest, but nothing concrete,” said Neilson. “The market for teams interested in Lawrence is in England and they aren’t even back playing yet. So until that opens up I don’t think there will be any movement.”
“Lawrence should prove himself in the Premiership, try to establish himself in the Scotland set-up and then look to make his move,” he added.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
