Overview
- Rangers confirmed the signing of 22-year-old centre-back Olwethu Makhanya on Thursday, making him one of the club’s summer recruits as manager Derek McInnes looks to bolster central defence.
- U.S. reporting from The Philadelphia Inquirer says the fee is about $4.5 million and includes a sell-on clause, though both clubs described the transfer fee as undisclosed in their announcements.
- Makhanya played 53 matches for the Philadelphia Union after breaking into the first team in 2025 and was part of South Africa’s 2026 World Cup squad, factors that raised his profile for European clubs.
- The Union timed the sale in part because Makhanya’s contract expires next year, and Philadelphia are continuing their summer overhaul with Philippe Ndinga reported close to a loan to Belgian side Zulte Waregem that includes an option to buy.
- With Neil Pierre and other younger players being given bigger roles, the move shifts depth for the Union while Rangers add competition at the back as they pursue further signings for wide and midfield positions.