Southampton are tracking prolific striker Lawrence Shankland as they weigh up attacking reinforcements ahead of the new season.
The Saints are yet to make formal contact but are keeping close tabs on the Scotland international, who is now a free agent after leaving Hearts.
Saints Monitor Shankland as West Brom Join Transfer Race
Shankland, who scored 31 goals for Hearts in 2023/24 but just eight last season, has emerged as a potential target for Southampton as they plan their next steps following a strong return to the Premier League. However, they face stiff competition for his signature—West Brom are also hunting Shankland, with reports confirming they have already opened talks with his representatives.
The 29-year-old striker has been linked with a move to English football before, most notably in 2020 when West Brom showed interest during his time at Dundee United. A move failed to materialise then due to the fee involved, but with his contract at Tynecastle now expired, the current interest is likely to gather pace.
Southampton are believed to be exploring a range of striking options to bolster their depth, particularly as uncertainty lingers around some forward positions. Shankland, who has 67 goals for Hearts and two PFA Scotland Player of the Year awards to his name, is viewed as a reliable, low-risk option who could adapt quickly to life in England.
No official approach
While the Saints are yet to make an official approach, their recruitment team are known to be admirers of Shankland’s clinical instincts and consistent output over the past two seasons. The player is also understood to be open to a move south of the border, with the Championship and Premier League both seen as natural next steps in his career.
Should a deal be reached, it would mark Shankland’s first spell in English football following a career spent largely in the Scottish Premiership, with a brief stint in Belgium at Beerschot.
Writer’s View
This could be a smart piece of business for Southampton. Lawrence Shankland is a proven scorer and a free agent—two factors that make him an attractive proposition in a summer where value will be crucial. While Premier League experience is lacking, his consistent goal return in Scotland suggests he could thrive with the right service.
But the presence of West Brom complicates matters. With the Baggies having already made contact, Saints may need to move decisively to avoid missing out on a forward with the potential to add real firepower to their frontline.
