Shankland flies out to Spain as Hearts contract talks progress

Lawrence Shankland has flown out to join Hearts on their pre-season camp in Spain as contract talks progress.

The striker’s current deal expired recently, leaving him free to speak to other clubs.

He was pictured at Glasgow Airport on Wednesday evening as he prepared to fly out to join up with the Hearts squad at their pre-season training camp in Spain.

New head coach Derek McInnes is keen to keep him at Tynecastle and discussions over a new deal have been progressing, and there is hope a new deal can be struck.

The 29-year-old joined the Jambos from Belgian club Beerschot in 2022 and has scored 68 goals in 137 appearances across all competitions.

Speaking to Hearts TV on Tuesday, McInnes said the forward is a player he wants to work with.

He said: “I think I’ve made it clear, Lawrence is a boy I want to work with.

“As a manager, you set out your targets, and you want to work with the players you want to work with.

“I’m well used to it in my career, not getting everything I want, but I would love the opportunity for Lawrence to be with us this season and while we still have a chance, we’ll hang onto that.”

The squad are currently in Spain for a pre-season training camp.