The deal is reportedly worth around  $4.5 million (about R75 million). Philadelphia Union have also secured a significant sell-on clause. Makhanya becomes Rangers’ eighth signing of the current transfer window.
OLWETHU MAKHANYA SIGNS FOR RANGERS FC
Rangers confirmed that Makhanya has signed an initial four-year deal. The club also holds an option to extend his contract by a further 12 months.
The centre-back will wear the number 24 shirt at Ibrox. Makhanya came through the Stellenbosch FC academy before moving to the United States in July 2023. He joined Philadelphia Union and quickly established himself in the first team.
The defender made 53 senior appearances in all competitions. He also helped Philadelphia Union win the 2025 MLS Supporters’ Shield.
His impressive displays earned him a senior Bafana Bafana debut in May 2026. He was later included in South Africa’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on the club’s official website, Makhanya described the move as a dream come true. He said he was excited to test himself in European football.
MANAGER DEREK MCINNES CONFIDENT
Rangers manager Derek McInnes welcomed the signing and praised the defender’s qualities.
McInnes highlighted Makhanya’s physical presence, composure on the ball and potential. He also revealed the club had monitored the South African closely before completing the transfer.
The move makes Makhanya the fifth South African to represent Rangers. He will now look to establish himself in Scotland as Rangers prepare for the new campaign and another title challenge against rivals Celtic.
Born in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, Makhanya began his football journey at the Juventus FC community academy in north Durban.
He joined the club’s Under-13 team after spending years playing street football from the age of five. His impressive performances at Juventus FC earned him a move to the Marumo Gallants reserve team, where he continued his development.
He was spotted by Stellenbosch FC. He won the 2022/23 Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player award before moving to Major League Soccer (MLS) in July 2023.