Rangers 'progressing in talks' to sign MLS star in problem position as they test waters with seven-figure fee
Gers closing in on their eighth signing of the summer
Rangers are ‘progressing in talks’ with Philadelphia Union over a deal to sign centre back Olwethu Makhanya for an initial fee of £3m.
The 22-year old South Africa international has been on the Light Blues’ radar for weeks after manager Derek McInnes identified central defence as an area which needs strengthening. Reports suggest Makhanya is Rangers’ number one target at the back and that they’re hoping to strike a deal within the next 48 hours. Atalanta loanee Ben Godfrey has already been drafted in but Rangers are yet to make any permanent centre back signings.
After the goalless draw against West Ham at Ibrox on Sunday, McInnes claimed Rangers were hoping for a signing within days - and another before Friday’s trip to Dundee United for their Premiership opener. One of the mystery men appears to be Makhanya, who would become Rangers’ eight signing of the summer. After coming third last season, the new manager and recruitment team are already throwing the kitchen sink at the upcoming campaign.
Rangers ‘progressing in talks’ for Makhanya
Sky Sports report: “Rangers are progressing in talks over a deal to sign Philadelphia Union defender Olwethu Makhanya. Sky Sports News revealed earlier this month that he was a target for the Ibrox club as they looked to add another centre-back to Derek McInnes’ squad. Talks are ongoing over an initial fee of $4m (£3m) for the South Africa international – who has played 53 times for the MLS club.”
The defender went AWOL from his current side after returning from World Cup duty with South Africa after Union reportedly rejected a bid from Belgian club Genk - despite him making it clear he wanted to leave. Makhanya has made 44 MLS appearances since signing from native side Stellenbosch in 2023. Over the past few years, he’s faced the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Heung-Min Son stateside.
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Rangers make inroads to solving problem position
Godfrey has looked sharp in pre-season, while his centre back partner Emmanuel Fernandez was the club’s standout performer last season. However, other than that, the Light Blues have limited options at the heart of the defence with John Souttar heading for the exit door amid Sheffield United interest and Clinton Nsiala not part of first team plans.
Rangers were also looking at FC Troyes stalwart Sankhoun Diawara to bolster their defensive options however the 20-year old has instead opted for AC Milan. According to Fabrizio Romano. I Rossoneri have forked out £1.7m for the Frenchman, who is flying this week to Italy for a medical.