Rangers have reinforced their defensive options by completing a £3m ($4m) deal to sign South Africa international Olwethu Makhanya from the Philadelphia Union.
Makhanya, who was selected in South Africa’s World Cup squad but did not make an appearance at the tournament, moved to MLS in 2023.
The centre-back made 45 appearances in MLS for the Union, contributing to 11 clean sheets and helping them win the Supporters’ Shield last year.
The 22-year-old has now become the eighth player to join Rangers ahead of Derek McInnes’ first season at the helm, which begins with Friday’s trip to Dundee United.
The Gers – who finished a disappointing third in the Scottish Premiership last season – had already brought in Ivor Pandur, Vanja Dragojevic, Ross McCrorie, Dan Neil, Lawrence Shankland and Cammy Devlin, while Ben Godfrey arrived on loan from Atalanta.
A signing-day tradition.
The Scarf Pic! pic.twitter.com/RIARVGaZz8
— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) July 30, 2026
“We’re really pleased to bring Olwethu to the club,” McInnes told the club’s website after Makhanya agreed an initial four-year contract.
“He’s a player we have watched closely, and we feel he has all the attributes to make a real impact here, while also continuing to develop his game.
“For someone so young, he’s already gained experience in different environments. He is a strong, physical and confident defender, and I look forward to seeing him settle into the squad and show what he is capable of as a Rangers player.”
After visiting Dundee United for their Premiership opener, Rangers take on Jagiellonia Bialystok in the first leg of their Europa League third-round qualifying tie on August 6.
