Rangers defender Olwethu Makhanya has attracted scouting missions from Premier League clubs Brentford and Sunderland. The 22-year-old South African international has become a key figure for manager Derek McInnes since joining from Philadelphia Union in the summer.
Brentford and Sunderland had scouts in attendance to watch Makhanya during Rangers' 3-1 win over Kilmarnock last weekend. That victory extended the club's winning run to five matches and kept them second in the Premiership, just two points behind leaders Celtic. The team has now accumulated 19 points from their opening eight matches, with a goal difference of plus 11.
Interest in the centre-back also extends to clubs in Italy and Spain. Despite this growing attention, Rangers insist their position is strong.
Club stance and contract security
Sources have told the club that Rangers are under no pressure to sell Makhanya in the next 12 months. He is tied to a contract at Ibrox that runs until the summer of 2030, placing the club in a commanding position regarding his future.
Former Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness has publicly urged Rangers to act proactively. At the end of September, Wyness said the club should already be looking to extend Makhanya's deal. He warned that adding another two or three years could be the difference between an £8 million fee and a £20 million fee in the future. "Rangers cannot afford to sell Makhanya 'badly' at any stage," Wyness said, adding that agents will be "in his ear" about a move.
Future outlook
If Makhanya continues to impress, the number of interested clubs is expected to grow. Premier League sides are already taking notice of his performances in a Rangers side that has conceded just five goals in eight league games. The club has been urged to protect its asset against this increasing external pressure.
Rangers now turn their focus back to the pitch, where they aim to maintain their winning form. Their next test is an away trip to face fourth-placed Dundee on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00. McInnes's side will look to build on their current momentum, which includes a 1-0 win over Celtic last month, as they prepare for a key period in the season.
Background and full detail: Football Insider
