Bafana Bafana defender set for R75m transfer
· The South African
In recent times, there has been much speculation about the future of Bafana Bafana centre-back Olwethu Makhanya, who has been sought after by numerous overseas clubs.
His MLS club Philadelphia Union had reportedly turned down as many as four separate offers for the 22-year-old, which apparently went as high as R65 million.
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Makhanya completed a permanent move to Philadelphia Union in July 2023 as the club’s first-ever Under-22 Initiative signing, ultimately going on to make over 40 appearances for the American club, while he was a key contributor to their 2025 MLS Supporters’ Shield campaign.
His steady development in the United States earned him a spot in Hugo Broos’ squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, although the youngster did not feature in any of Bafana Bafana’s four games at the 2026 World Cup,
Bafana Bafana defender finds new home
According to ever-reliable publication, The Athletic, Makhanya is now on the verge of completing a high-profile transfer from Major League Soccer side Philadelphia Union to Scottish Premiership giants Rangers FC.
Reports indicate that Rangers have agreed to a fee in the region of R75 million ($4.5 million) to secure the young South African international on a four-year contract.
Makhanya, who initially burst onto the scene at Stellenbosch FC before moving to North America in 2023, has grown into a mature, composure-driven defender known for his positional awareness and tactical flexibility across the backline.
Rangers making moves in the market
With Rangers reshaping their options central to the defence, Makhanya’s signature represents a clear, data-led recruitment effort to bring athletic talent and strong technical potential to Glasgow.
He is set to become the eighth summer arrival at Ibrox as manager Derek McInnes continues bolstering his defensive structure, while the move represents an exciting moment for the South African star as he arrives on the European stage.
The Durban-born defender first emerged in the Marumo Gallants DStv Diski Challenge team, but it was with Stellenbosch where he truly established himself during the 2022/23 campaign, earning a nomination for the South African Young Footballer of the Year award. He also won the 2022/23 Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player accolade after impressing in the Betway Premiership.