Hearts forward Lawrence Shankland is one of the more talented forwards on this list. He is now at a significant crossroads in his career as he weighs up a short-term new deal at Tynecastle Park. His current contract is set to expire at the end of this season. He is yet to sign the club’s three-year extension proposal. With interests from various quarters, including discussions about his potential future, Shankland’s decision is eagerly anticipated by fans and management alike.
Of course, Shankland has taken the spotlight with his incredible year. He has scored 68 goals in 137 games for Hearts. During the last campaign, he proved his striking ability by netting a double to help secure an ecstatic 3-2 win over Motherwell. He was incredibly influential down the stretch, scoring four goals and adding two assists over the last four games of the season. Despite these accomplishments, he struggled for form throughout the season, which may factor into his decision-making process regarding his future.
Shankland has 16 caps for Scotland. With the World Cup fast approaching at the end of next season, his circumstances are all the more pressing. His manager, Derek McInnes, of Hearts, summed up how important Shankland is to his side. He looks forward to working with him as the process continues. He further noted that he’s been in regular communication with Shankland and his representatives, talking about how those talks have been happening for some time.
“I’m in constant dialogue with Lawrence, spoke to his agents as well several times through the last few weeks but Lawrence has obviously got a lot to consider.” – Derek McInnes
Hearts CEO Andrew McKinlay backed up McInnes’s feelings, praising Shankland’s potential and the club’s desire to come to a deal. He admitted that both sides deserve to know about Shankland’s future sooner rather than later.
“There’ll come a point where he has to move on and try and secure his future and likewise I need to make sure that we secure our squad going forward but we’re not at that stage yet, but sooner rather than later really to try and get that resolved because I want clarity in what I’m dealing with and I’m sure Lawrence is wanting clarity on his future as well.” – Andrew McKinlay
It has left Shankland looking for new challenges beyond Hearts. The coaching staff feels that being with the club will most help his development. McInnes even described Hearts as one of Shankland’s potential “best options.” His intent seems to be to create as positive an environment where Shankland can really shine.
“Hopefully we can find a solution because he is a player that I think can really thrive with us at Hearts.” – Andrew McKinlay
Add in the fact that Brighton owner Tony Bloom has already bankrolled £9.86 million of losses at Hearts, making for an interesting little narrative. There is no clear link between this investment and Shankland’s ongoing negotiations right now.
As Shankland considers his options, time is running out. His decision likely will determine his professional fate for years to come. As much as it affects Hearts’ squad planning, it’ll determine how ambitious they can be next season. The club clearly sees Shankland as a major player, which means it’s essential they act to clear up this cloud of uncertainty as soon as possible.
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