‘West Brom take Shankland risk’ as fresh contract details emerge
West Brom are looking forward to a new dawn under Ryan Mason.
The 33-year-old was appointed as the new Baggies boss earlier in June and looks set to be backed in this summer’s transfer window.
Mason’s main target is Scottish striker Lawrence Shankland, and the deal looks closer to being completed every day.
However, some emerging details regarding Shankland’s proposed contract might be seen as a risk by fans.
Shankland contract could be seen as a risk by some fans
Shankland has been a key member of the Hearts squad for a few years now, but he is out of contract at the end of June.
The Edinburgh club were keen for him to stay, but it appears as if he has his heart set on a transfer to The Hawthorns.
Other clubs have shown a transfer interest in Shankland, including some from the Saudi Pro League, but the Baggies remain favourites for his signature.
A report via West Brom Xtra on X (9 June) suggests that Shankland will be offered a two-year contract with an option to extend for a third year, which some fans may see as risky considering the striker turns 30 in August.
However, these generous terms may have been needed to stave off interest from other clubs.
Personal terms no issue, 2 years + 1 on the table, just waiting for him to sign the deal. There’s no rush as he’s a free agent but he needs to make the choice, everything is positive.
— West Brom Xtra (@WestBromXtra) June 9, 2025
Shankland risk could be worth taking for West Brom
Shankland has fired 68 goals in 137 appearances for Hearts. He’s comfortable with both feet and capable of dropping deeper to create changes for other teammates.
He has only played in Scotland, but seems to have all the attributes to make an impact in the Championship next season.
Although it’s seen by many as ‘best practice’ not to offer lengthy contracts to players once they’ve turned 30, this deal seems like a risk worth taking for West Brom.
| Lawrence Shankland Hearts statistics | |
| Appearances | 137 |
| Goals | 68 |
If Shankland signs, he’d likely go straight into Mason’s first-choice XI. The manager likes to play with one recognised striker with support from two wingers and a number 10.
The transfer could spell the end for American striker Daryl Dyke at West Brom, as he has struggled to impress fans since his transfer from Orlando City.
Of course, any first-team departures from the squad will depend on Mason’s verdict, and he may choose to run the rule over his squad in pre-season before allowing any sales.