South Africa defender Olwethu Makhanya has become Rangers' eighth summer signing, joining for an undisclosed fee from Philadelphia Union. The 22-year-old centre-back played 53 times for the Major League Soccer side after breaking into the first team last year, and he was part of South Africa's 2026 World Cup squad, although he did not play a minute.
What did Makhanya say about the move?
Makhanya said the transfer was a major moment in his career and a long-held ambition.
"I can't even explain how I am feeling right now, it is honestly a big honour and a huge blessing for me to joins such a big club with so much history. I can't wait to get started," Makhanya said.
"For me, it has always been a dream to play football in Europe, ever since I was a kid, so to be here is a dream come true."
He started his career with Stellenbosch in his homeland before moving to Philadelphia Union, where his club form earned him international recognition and selection for South Africa's 2026 World Cup squad.
Why do Rangers believe he can succeed in Scotland?
Rangers boss Derek McInnes said Makhanya has the physical and technical qualities to adapt to Scottish football, despite arriving from Major League Soccer to a new country and a different style of play.
"He's got a lot of athleticism and he has good potential," McInnes said prior to his side's Scottish Premiership opener at Dundee United on Friday.
"And while he's coming from the MLS, to a different country and a different type of football, we feel he's got the attributes that can cope with that."
Makhanya was named in South Africa's 2026 World Cup squad after impressing at club level, but he did not feature in any match at this summer's finals. Rangers' signing comes as the club prepared to begin the new Scottish Premiership season with a trip to Dundee United, where live match commentary of the opening game was available on and highlights were due on BBC .
Key Facts
- Olwethu Makhanya has joined Rangers from Philadelphia Union for an undisclosed fee.
- The 22-year-old centre-back made 53 appearances for Philadelphia Union after breaking into the first team last year.
- He was part of South Africa's 2026 World Cup squad but did not play at the finals.
- Rangers boss Derek McInnes said Makhanya has athleticism and good potential.
- The move makes him Rangers' eighth summer signing.
