South African centre-back Olwethu Makhanya signs for Rangers on four-year deal
Twenty-two-year-old defender Olwethu Makhanya has joined Rangers from MLS side Philadelphia Union on a four-year contract with an optional extra year.
Rangers have secured the services of 22-year-old South African defender Olwethu Makhanya, signing him from Philadelphia Union on a four-year contract that includes a further year’s option. The centre-back featured 53 times for the MLS club after earning a place in the starting lineup last year. Makhanya, who started his professional journey with Stellenbosch, was selected for South Africa’s 2026 World Cup roster but did not see playing time at the finals.
He described the transfer as a dream realized and a great honour to join a club with a rich history. Rangers boss Derek McInnes highlighted Makhanya’s athletic qualities and believes he possesses the attributes needed to succeed in the Scottish Premiership. The move marks Rangers’ eighth signing of the summer window.
Why it matters
The transfer adds a promising international defender to Rangers, reflecting the club’s recruitment strategy and MLS-to-Europe pathway.
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