Rangers are on the brink of completing a move for South Africa international Olwethu Makhanya as John Souttar’s transfer to Sheffield United gathers pace. Derek McInnes’ side are second in the Premiership with 69 points from 33 games and need defensive cover before the season opener on 31 July.
What’s happening with Olwethu Makhanya?
Makhanya, a Philadelphia Union defender, has been proposed to Rangers as a direct replacement for Souttar. The South African defender featured in his country’s 2026 World Cup squad and has drawn interest from Govan. According to reports on 14 July, Makhanya was put forward weeks ago but does not sit at the top of McInnes’ shortlist.
Sheffield United are now in the frame for Souttar after the Scotland defender was told he won’t be a key part of the manager’s plans at Ibrox. Wilder’s side are pushing hard for the centre-back, who has been a target for months.
Who else could Rangers sign?
Rangers have also eyed FC Troyes defender Sankhoun Diawara, 20, whose contract is in its final year. The Gers have tabled an ambitious offer to the Frenchman. Earlier links with Excelsior Rotterdam’s Casper Widell have cooled, leaving McInnes with Emmanuel Fernandez and Ben Godfrey as the only senior centre-back options for now.
With six signings already completed, the next arrivals must shore up the backline. Rangers face Dundee United at Tannadice on 31 July and cannot afford another defensive lapse after shipping five goals in their last outing, a 5-2 win over Falkirk on 16 May.
Why this matters for Rangers
Defensive reinforcements can’t wait. Rangers sit one point behind Hearts with 66 goals scored and 31 conceded this season. Their next fixture is against Saint Etienne at home on 22 July, a game that could define their summer transfer business.
McInnes has made clear that Souttar’s departure is imminent. Finding a reliable partner for Fernandez and Godfrey is now the priority. The window is closing fast and the pressure is on to get deals done before the Premiership curtain-raiser.
What comes next?
Rangers must finalise their defensive targets within days. Makhanya remains an option, but McInnes could yet pivot to Diawara or another centre-back. Fans in G51 will know soon enough who steps into Souttar’s boots as the Gers chase silverware and stability.
