Rangers are on the verge of signing defender Olwethu Makhanya from Philadelphia Union for £3million. The South Africa international is expected to add depth to the Rangers backline before their Premiership opener against Dundee United.
Age and height
Makhanya is 22 years old and stands at just over 6ft 1in tall. He already has World Cup experience, having been part of South Africa's squad for the tournament.
Why is he available?
Makhanya has reportedly forced a move away from Philadelphia Union after failing to return from the World Cup. He did not make an appearance at the tournament and has been missing from MLS action since South Africa were eliminated in the round of 32.
Best attributes
The defender has been praised for his strength, physicality, and no-nonsense attitude. On his two-footedness, Makhanya said: "I am naturally right-footed, but earlier in my career I injured my right foot. I didn’t want to stop playing so I had to force myself to play with my left. I feel equally at home playing with either foot."
What Philadelphia have said
Union boss Ryan Richter has remained tight-lipped about the situation, stating: "I have worked with Olwethu since he first joined the club, and we have a good personal relationship. But right now, he is away from the club for personal reasons, and we will leave it at that for now."
South African view
Despite not giving Makhanya minutes at the World Cup, national team boss Hugo Broos believes he has a big future: "It's clear he has all the qualities needed and he will be an important player for South Africa moving forward."
MLS incidents
Makhanya was involved in a feisty shoving match with Inter Miami's Lionel Messi last year. When asked about the exchange, Makhanya joked: "I mean, obviously, he was, like, backing off towards me and he wasn't aware of that. So I was just trying to make sure he doesn't step on me. I just pushed him a little bit. I guess he didn't like that. And then he started with the elbow and everything. And the linesman was just there, but, you know, he didn't say anything."
