DEAL AGREED: Rangers Captain Lawrence Shankland Reaches Contract Agreement as McInnes Strengthens His Squad
Rangers have made another major statement ahead of the new campaign, with Lawrence Shankland becoming a central figure in Derek McInnes’ plans at Ibrox.
Shankland joined Rangers from Hearts in the summer after agreeing an initial two-year contract through to 2028, with an option for 
The striker’s arrival has since been followed by an important leadership decision. McInnes has named Shankland as Rangers’ new captain, handing him the responsibility of succeeding James Tavernier as skipper.
That decision adds another dimension to Shankland’s role. Having already captained Hearts during their impressive 2025/26 campaign, the 30-year-old now has the opportunity to lead Rangers both on and off the pitch.
Shankland arrives at Ibrox with a strong scoring record. He scored 20 goals for Hearts during the previous campaign, including 16 in the Scottish Premiership, and his performances helped Hearts challenge strongly near the top of the table.
For McInnes, the signing is about more than goals. The Rangers manager is rebuilding the squad and needs experienced players capable of handling the enormous expectations that come with playing for the club.
The appointment of Shankland as captain therefore represents a significant vote of confidence. McInnes clearly sees him as someone capable of setting standards within the dressing room while also providing a consistent attacking threat.
Rangers supporters will now be hoping their new captain can transfer his impressive form to Ibrox. With the club targeting success domestically and in European competition, Shankland’s leadership and goals could prove crucial.
The agreement and subsequent captaincy appointment underline Rangers’ determination to build a squad with both quality and character. For Shankland, meanwhile, a long-awaited move to his boyhood club has now developed into an even bigger responsibility.
The next chapter is ready to begin—and Rangers fans will be watching closely to see whether their new captain can lead the club to major success.