Bafana Bafana defender Olwethu Makhanya is on the verge of completing a move to Scottish giants Rangers after the club stepped up negotiations with Major League Soccer side Philadelphia Union.
The 22-year-old centre-back is reportedly close to signing a four-year contract at Ibrox, where manager Derek McInnes is eager to strengthen his defensive options before the start of the new Scottish Premiership season.
Deal Nearing Completion
According to reports, Rangers are close to reaching an agreement with Philadelphia Union for Makhanya’s transfer.
The Scottish club are expected to pay around US$4.5 million, with the deal also including a sell-on clause. The agreement would represent a higher fee than previous offers made by Belgian clubs, which Philadelphia had turned down earlier in the year.
Should the transfer be completed, Makhanya will secure his long-awaited move to European football.
Makhanya Pushed For European Move
The transfer follows a tense period between the defender and Philadelphia Union.
Makhanya reportedly refused to return to the MLS club after his involvement with Bafana Bafana, believing the club had gone back on an earlier promise to allow him to pursue a move to Europe.
Philadelphia previously rejected approaches from Belgian sides, including Genk, but Rangers have now emerged as the frontrunners to secure his signature.
Defensive Reinforcement For Rangers
Rangers view Makhanya as an important addition to their backline, particularly with defender John Souttar expected to leave the club.
The South African international’s athleticism, composure on the ball and physical presence are expected to strengthen Rangers’ defence as they prepare for another domestic title challenge and European campaign.
Historic Move For South African Football
If the transfer is finalised, Makhanya will become just the fifth South African to represent Rangers.
He would follow in the footsteps of Johnny Hubbard, Don Kichenbrand, Dean Furman and Bongani Zungu, joining a small group of South Africans to have worn the famous blue jersey at Ibrox.
For Makhanya, the move would mark the biggest step of his career so far and provide the opportunity to test himself in European football at one of Scotland’s most successful clubs.