Olwethu Makhanya says Rangers have made all his dreams come true after securing a move to Europe. The South Africa World Cup defender has joined the Ibrox club from MLS outfit Philadelphia Union in a £3million deal.
The 22-year-old becomes Derek McInnes' eighth new recruit of the summer after penning a four-year contract with an option for a fifth. Makhanya will be available for Friday night's Premiership curtain-raiser against Dundee United.
Dream move to Europe
Makhanya, who made his debut for Bafana Bafana in a friendly against Nicaragua ahead of this summer's World Cup, said: "I can't even explain how I am feeling right now, it is honestly a big honour and a huge blessing for me to join such a big club with so much history. I can't wait to get started."
He added: "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. Rangers are one of the biggest clubs in Scotland and has a lot of history of developing and producing really good players."
From Stellenbosch to the USA
Makhanya began his football journey in his homeland Stellenbosch before moving to the USA in 2023. He went on to make almost 50 appearances for Philadelphia Union, where he lifted last year's Supporters Shield – the trophy awarded to the team with the MLS's best regular season record.
Reflecting on his career path, he said: "Leaving my country for the first time was a big one, being exposed to a different culture and a different environment. Having to adapt by myself in a different country was a big moment for me and a very important one for me to learn how to take care of myself."
Defensive reinforcement
With Scotland centre-back John Souttar set to lead an exodus of Ibrox fringe men, McInnes has been keen to bolster his defensive options. Makhanya described himself as "a composed centre-back" who is "quick, strong and can be physical if the game demands that from me."
Other transfer activity
Meanwhile, Nedim Bajrami is close to leaving Ibrox as Saudi Pro-League club Al Taawoun close in on a £2.5m deal. Souttar has interest from Sheffield United and Leicester, while Luton-linked Ross McCausland is also attracting attention.
