Rangers have completed the signing of centre-back Olwethu Makhanya from Philadelphia Union in a deal worth around £3m. The 22-year-old South Africa international becomes the club's eighth summer arrival, signing a four-year contract with an option to extend by a further 12 months. Rangers finished last season second in the Premiership, just one point behind leaders Heart of Midlothian, and will look to strengthen their defence ahead of the new campaign.
Who is Olwethu Makhanya?
Makhanya joins Rangers after making 53 appearances for Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer. The young defender expressed his excitement at joining the Scottish giants, calling it a "big honour and a huge blessing." He described moving to Europe as a "dream come true," highlighting his ambition to develop his game at Ibrox.
What does this mean for Rangers?
Manager Derek McInnes praised Makhanya's physicality and confidence, stating that the defender has the attributes to make an immediate impact. With Rangers looking to challenge for the title this season, strengthening their defensive options is key. The club have already signed seven players this summer, including Vanja Dragojevic, Lawrence Shankland, and Cammy Devlin.
What's next for Rangers?
Rangers begin their Scottish Premiership campaign with a home game against Dundee United on Friday, live on Sky Sports. The club are also working on adding more attacking options, with Coventry City winger Jahnoah Markelo reportedly under consideration. Additionally, they may look to bring in further defensive reinforcements, with John Souttar among the players who could leave the club.
