South Africa's Makhanya becomes Rangers' eighth summer signing

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that Rangers have completed the signing of South Africa defender Olwethu Makhanya from Philadelphia Union for an undisclosed fee, making him the club’s eighth addition of the summer transfer window. The 22-year-old centre-back arrives in Scotland after establishing himself in Major League Soccer, where he made 53 appearances for Philadelphia after moving into the first team last year.

Makhanya began his professional career with Stellenbosch in South Africa before moving to the United States. According to the BBC, his club performances helped earn him a place in South Africa’s 2026 World Cup squad, although he did not feature during the tournament. In comments carried by the publisher, Makhanya described joining Rangers as a major moment in his career and said playing in Europe had long been an ambition.

Rangers manager Derek McInnes said before the Scottish Premiership opener away to Dundee United that the defender has strong physical qualities and room to develop. McInnes also acknowledged that Makhanya will be adapting from MLS to a different football environment, but said the club believes he has the attributes needed to handle that transition.

The signing adds further depth to Rangers’ squad at the start of McInnes’ tenure and comes amid a busy summer of recruitment. BBC Sport notes that Rangers begin their league campaign against Dundee United at Tannadice Park on Friday, 31 July, with the new arrival joining as the club prepares for the Scottish Premiership season.