Rangers Identify This World Cup Centre-back As A Summer Target: Why He Could Be A Smart Signing

Rangers Identify This World Cup Centre-back As A Summer Target: Why He Could Be A Smart Signing If a recent transfer update from Sky Sports Scotland is true, Rangers are keeping close tabs on Olwethu Makhanya ahead of a potential summer move. They might part ways with John Souttar amid interest from Leicester City, and the Philadelphia Union defender could be roped in as his replacement in the heart of the backline. The 22-year-old South Africa international progressed through Marumo’s academy ranks before securing a move to Stellenbosch back in his homeland. He eventually cemented a first-team status during the 2022-23 season and impressed enough to earn a €445k transfer to the MLS side, becoming the club’s first U-22 initiative signing. After a spell with the reserves, Makhanya was promoted to the first team and has so far featured 53 times for them across competitions. He was also a part of Bafana Bafana’s World Cup squad, but remained an unused substitute throughout the tournament. Nevertheless, the youngster has flourished as a tactically versatile centre-half with physical dominance and technical ability, thus drawing the attention of the Glasgow giants, who are keen to have him in their ranks as part of Derek McInnes’ squad rebuild. WASHINGTON, DC – FEBRUARY 21: Tai Baribo #9 of D.C. United kicks the ball in front of Japhet Sery #5 and Olwethu Makhanya #29 of the Philadelphia Union during the second half of the match at Audi Field on February 21, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) Why Rangers Must Snap Him Up And What He Would Offer At Ibrox Rangers are having a busy summer, with six new names already roped in to bolster their lineup across the pitch. But they have played it smart, having snapped up Lawrence Shankland, Dan Neil and Cammy Devlin on Bosman, whereas Ben Godfrey has joined on a season-long loan from Atalanta. Ross McCrorie cost a minuscule £900,000, which could rise to between £1.5m and £2m if the add-ons and performance-related clauses are triggered. They paid £6m to Hull City for Ivor Pandur, but recouped £3m, with Jack Butland moving in the opposite direction. The fund is there for further additions, as the Light Blues are likely to balance the books by offloading Souttar, Danilo and a few other fringe players in due time. Meanwhile, the Gers must reconstruct the defensive third following the return of both Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius to Wolves and Marseille, respectively, upon completion of their season-long loans. James Tavernier and Ben Davies have been released, and the likely departure of Souttar and the outcast Clinton Nsiala would leave them with Emannuel Fernandez and Godfrey as the only available central defensive options. Makhanya is still young and prone to mistakes, and he needs to be more disciplined and consistent when engaging in duels. But he holds the traits of a modern-day centre-back, who is regarded for his game reading and ball-playing attributes. His inclusion would boost their defence, and it is to be seen now whether they step up the chase in the coming days.