Barry Ferguson reveals the summer signing Rangers should have made without question

Hearts striker Shankland demonstrated his scoring prowess by netting his twelfth goal of the season during Sunday’s match at Tynecastle Park. Derek McInnes’ side secured a 2-1 victory against Rangers, cementing their lead atop the William Hill Premiership standings and extending their advantage at the competition’s summit.

When asked during a Monday radio appearance whether he would have pursued Shankland for Rangers during the summer transfer window, Barry Ferguson provided an unequivocal response. Ferguson labeled the potential signing a “no-brainer” and emphasized the striker’s consistent contributions to Hearts across multiple seasons. He praised the player’s recent form, noting his exceptional performance during the weekend encounter.

Ferguson, who managed Rangers temporarily during the latter stages of the previous campaign, declared he would have recruited the thirty-year-old without hesitation had his tenure continued. He stated he would have “taken him in a heartbeat,” underscoring his conviction regarding Shankland’s quality and suitability for the club’s needs.

Andy Walker, a former Celtic player, offered his perspective on Rangers’ alternative recruitment strategy. Walker suggested Rangers invested substantial funds in Danilo and Youssef Chermiti as replacements, yet neither has delivered consistent match-winning performances. By contrast, Shankland’s goal-scoring record demonstrated the value Rangers might have gained from pursuing him instead.

Currently positioned fourth in the Scottish top flight, Rangers trail Hearts by twelve points, though they possess a game remaining to close that gap. The club faces Motherwell at home this weekend, followed by St Mirren’s visit to Govan on Tuesday. Danny Rohl’s squad begins 2026 with a challenging away fixture against Celtic scheduled for January 3.