As an alternative to Adam Idah, Celtic are considering taking advantage of Rangers’ pursuit of Hearts striker Lawrence Shankland, according to HITC.

The 28-year-old striker has been linked to a move to Ibrox all summer long. After a successful loan stint in the second half of last season, the reigning SPFL champions are eager to bring Norwich’s Idah back to the team permanently.

However, after negotiations for a deal involving the Irish striker came to a standstill, Shankland is now the top choice among Celtic executives’ other options.

Rangers to be hijacked by Celtic for Shankland, who the Hearts need to leave for more than £3 million.
Earlier in the transfer window, Norwich turned down a £4 million offer from Celtic for Idah; now, the Canaries are seeking nearly twice that amount to secure Idah’s permanent move to Parkhead.

The Republic of Ireland international is eager to see Norwich’s new manager Johannes Hoff Thorup during preseason, but Celtic will have to wait to hear if a deal is possible.
Club executives are now considering other options for the striker position and are “stepping up their pursuit” of Hearts captain Shankland in light of the upcoming start of the Scottish Premiership this weekend.

Shankland, who has already been called “absolutely sensational” by Michael Stewart, is in the last year of his Tynecastle contract and is open to joining any of the Old Firm teams after turning down a Hearts contract extension.

The 28-year-old Scotland star is reportedly asking for more than £3 million from Hearts to leave the team, but since he is probably less expensive than Idah, Celtic should theoretically be able to close a deal more easily.

Rangers are thought to be leading the race to sign him, but Celtic have now gotten in touch and have the ability to sabotage the deal if they are unable to swiftly come to an agreement with Idah.