Philadelphia Union have announced the transfer move of Bafana Bafana defender Olwethu Makhanya from the Major League Soccer [MLS] to Scottish giants Rangers FC.
Makhanya has been the subject of speculation in the past few weeks following his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Bafana Bafana in North America.
The talented defender is joining the Scottish giants to continue his rapid rise in his career overseas.
Makhanya gained prominence with Betway Premiership side Stellenbosch FC under the then-head coach Steve Barker.
Makhanya came through the Stellies DStv Diski Challenge side and earned promotion to the club’s senior team in 2022, where he quickly made a name for himself as one of the best centre-backs in South Africa.
After making the jump to the Stellenbosch first team, Makhanya played a major role at the club as they constantly pushed Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates for the top three in the past few seasons.
At the Winelands-based club, Makhanya featured in 24 matches across all competitions and scored one goal. In 2023, the 22-year-old moved to the MLS and showcased his defensive qualities after making 53 appearances for Philadelphia while registering three goals.
His impressive performances earned him a place in the Bafana Bafana squad under Hugo Broos, which also saw him jet off to the just-ended World Cup.
After making history with South Africa in reaching the knockout stage of the global showpiece for the first time, Makhanya has moved to Scotland to join Rangers FC.
OLWETHU MAKHANYA JOINS RANGERS FC ON FOUR-YEAR DEAL
Philadelphia Union announced the departure of the KZN-born star, revealing that they reached an agreement to sell him to the European side – Rangers.
“Philadelphia Union have reached a transfer agreement with Rangers F.C. for defender Olwethu Makhanya,” his former employers said on X on Thursday. “Thank you, Makhanya, for all the memories over the last 3 years”
A few minutes after Philadelphia confirmed the transfer, Rangers unveiled Makhanya, who has put pen to paper on a four-year deal with an option to renew for another year.
“We can today confirm the signing of defender Olwethu Makhanya from Philadelphia Union on an initial four-year deal, with the option of an additional year, subject to international clearance,” reads the Rangers statement.
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