Former Everton forward tells Rangers who to sign if AEK Athens target Dessers departs

Former Everton forward Steven Naismith has recommended Lawrence Shankland as a suitable replacement for Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers, who is attracting strong interest from Greek giants AEK Athens.

Dessers, who impressed for Rangers last season, is reportedly on the verge of sealing a move to Athens, with the Greek side pushing to complete the deal within the next 48 hours.

The Nigerian international is said to have agreed personal terms on a three-year contract, as AEK begin their pre-season preparations in the Netherlands.

While Rangers are yet to reach an agreement with AEK, the two clubs are believed to be negotiating over the transfer fee. 

With the likelihood of Dessers' departure growing, Rangers are now in the market for a proven goal-scorer and Shankland believes the Nigerian fits the bill perfectly.

"He’s as safe a bet as you’re going to get for scoring goals in Scotland," Naismith told The Scottish Sun.

"What goes against him is probably his mobility but he’s just a really intelligent player now.

"He’s a good link between midfield and attack as well as a goal scorer. The other dynamics, which would come into any thought of signing him, is his age."

Naismith also highlighted Shankland's ability to link midfield and attack, praising his consistency over the past two seasons.

"I’m not saying Shanks is like-for-like but they’re the kind of challenges you have to think about," he added. 

"But I’m sure Shanks will definitely have some offers because for two seasons he’s just been unbelievable."

As Rangers prepare for the 2025/26 campaign, the club will be keen to secure a capable replacement should Dessers’ move materialize — and Shankland may just be top of the shortlist.

Adeyemi Adewale

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