Rangers land Lawrence Shankland transfer pitch as Cyriel Dessers 'question marks' point to bumper Hearts solution

Michael Stewart has admitted that he would be "very surprised" if Rangers were not considering a move for a striker like Lawrence Shankland.

The former Hearts midfielder turned pundit declared that the Scotland international is ready for the "step up" to the Scottish Premiership title contenders for the run-in - as he insisted there were major question marks around Cyriel Dessers. The Nigeria international has struggled to find top gear since arriving at Ibrox - and despite finding the net against Dumbarton left many fans frustrated as he passed up a host of chances during the Scottish Cup clash.

In contrast, Shankland is the leading scorer in the Scottish Premiership - with Hearts desperate to keep their star man as they push for third spot in the table and guaranteed European football. Reports have been swirling that the 28-year-old has turned down a bumper new contract at Tynecastle - leaving him with just 18 months left on his current deal with contract talks on-going.

Speculation intensified as Shankland missed Steven Naismith's sides win over Spartans in the Scottish Cup - meaning he would not be cup-tied if he moved to Ibrox. However, the Jambos' boss insisted the absence was due to illness.

Speaking to Viaplay about Rangers' January business, Stewart said: "I am in no doubt he will want to add another striker. The question marks still surrounding Cyriel Dessers and making the number nine position his own.

"I am not sure if he is going to do it. I think we have seen enough so far to suggest that reinforcements need to be had there. Obviously there is a lot of speculation about a certain number nine along the M8 at Hearts. There is no doubt Lawrence Shankland is a better striker than Cyriel Dessers."

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