According to a recent transfer update from Sky Sports Scotland, Rangers are closely monitoring Olwethu Makhanya in light of a potential summer transfer. The club may part ways with John Souttar due to interest from Leicester City, and Makhanya could be signed as his replacement in the defense.

The 22-year-old South African international developed his skills at Marumo’s academy before moving to Stellenbosch in his home country. During the 2022-23 season, he established himself in the first team and subsequently caught attention with a €445k transfer to the MLS, becoming the club’s first signing under the U-22 initiative.

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After a period in the reserves, Makhanya was elevated to the first team, where he has made 53 appearances across various competitions. He was also part of Bafana Bafana’s World Cup squad, though he did not see action in the tournament. Makhanya has emerged as a tactically versatile center-back, known for his physicality and technical skill, making him an appealing prospect for Rangers as they work on rebuilding their squad under Derek McInnes.

WASHINGTON, DC – FEBRUARY 21: Tai Baribo #9 of D.C. United kicks the ball in front of Japhet Sery #5 and Olwethu Makhanya #29 of the Philadelphia Union during the second half of the match at Audi Field on February 21, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)

Rangers’ Summer Moves and the Need for Reinforcements

Rangers have been active this summer, bringing in six new players to strengthen their squad. Their recent signings include Lawrence Shankland, Dan Neil, and Cammy Devlin on Bosman deals, while Ben Godfrey has joined on loan from Atalanta. Ross McCrorie was acquired for a modest £900,000, potentially rising to between £1.5m and £2m with add-ons. The club paid £6m to Hull City for Ivor Pandur but recouped £3m by selling Jack Butland, leaving room for further acquisitions as they plan to balance the books by selling Souttar, Danilo, and other fringe players.

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As the Gers aim to reinforce their defensive unit, they are dealing with the return of Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius to Wolves and Marseille at the end of their loan spells. James Tavernier and Ben Davies have also been released. With Souttar likely to depart and Clinton Nsiala out of favor, the only central defensive options currently available are Emannuel Fernandez and Godfrey.

While Makhanya remains a young talent and may make errors, he demonstrates the qualities of a modern center-back with strong game intelligence and ball-handling skills. His potential addition could enhance Rangers’ defense, and it remains to be seen if the club will expedite their pursuit in the coming days.