Rangers set World Cup defender as summer target: why he could be a signing

According toSports.

Background

Uloythu Makhanya, 22, is a South African international defender who impressed in the NBA with the Philadelphia Union. After moving from Maromo Academy to Stellenbosch, he has become a key player in the first team, making him an interesting candidate in the transfer market.

Why is this important?

The Uloythu Makhanya deal is considered important for Rangers in strengthening the team's ranks, especially with the possibility of John Soutar's departure. The young player, who has tactical talent and physical ability, could be a strong addition to the defence. Rangers' interest in Makhanya also reflects their strategy in the transfer market to strengthen the team with high-potential players.

Key points

• Rangers set World Cup defender as summer target: why he could be a signing.
• Scottish club Rangers are closely monitoring Philadelphia Union defender Olwethu Makhanya to strengthen their squad in the summer, especially with John Souttar's departure looming.
• Rangers Identify This World Cup Center-back As A Summer Target: Why He Could Be A Smart Signing - Yahoo Sports.

If the latest transfer updates from Sky Sports Scotland are to be believed, Rangers are closely monitoring defender Uluyithu Makhanya ahead of a potential summer move. The club may be moving to abandon player John Souttar in light of the interest shown by some clubs such as Leicester City, and Makhanya may be the appropriate replacement for him in the heart of defence.

Oloythu Makhanya is a 22-year-old South African international who started his football career at Maromo Academy before moving to Stellenbosch in his country. He showed great brilliance during the 2022-2023 season, which gave him the opportunity to move to the Philadelphia Union team in the NBA for 445 thousand euros, thus becoming the first player in the club’s project for players under the age of 22 years.

After a spell with the reserve team, Makhanya was promoted to the first team, where he has so far made 53 appearances in all competitions. He was also part of Bafana's World Cup squad, but did not get the chance to play during the tournament. Despite this, the player has tactical talent and high physical ability, which made him the focus of attention of Rangers, which is seeking to strengthen its ranks as part of the renewal of the team under the leadership of Derek McInnes.

Rangers management has been working diligently over the summer, having already brought in six new players to strengthen the team's ranks in all positions. They made smart signings, signing Lawrence Shankland, Dan Neil and Cammy Devlin on free deals, while Ben Godfrey joined on a season-long loan from Atalanta.

Although the cost of signing Ross McCruery was £900,000, it is likely to reach between £1.5m and £2m if add-ons and performance-related conditions come into play. They also paid £6m to bring in Ivor Bander from Hull City, but got back £3m with Jack Butland moving in the opposite direction.

There appears to be potential for more additions in the future, with the club likely to balance the books by offloading Soutar, Danilo and some other unreliable players. Meanwhile, the club has to rebuild its defensive side after Nasser Djiga and Derek Cornelius both returned to Wolves and Marseille respectively following the end of their loan spells.

James Tavernier and Ben Davies have both been released, and the departure of Souttar and outcast Clinton Nsiala is likely to leave Emmanuel Fernandes and Godfrey as the only two available options at centre-back.

Although Makhanya is still young and prone to mistakes, he needs more discipline and consistency when entering clashes. However, he possesses the qualities required as a modern defender, being considered adept at reading the game and passing. His joining Rangers could strengthen their defense, and it remains to be seen whether they will accelerate the process of signing him in the coming days.

What's next?

Rangers are expected to continue monitoring Olwethu Makhanya during the summer transfer window. If the deal goes through, the team could see a turnaround at the back, reflecting their commitment to developing young players. With the growing competition in the league, it will be important for Rangers to bolster their squad with players like Makhanya to succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Olwethu Makhanya?

Olwethu Makhanya is a 22-year-old South African international defender.

Where did Olwethu Makhanya come from before moving to Rangers?

Olwethu Makhanya started his football career at Maromo Academy and then moved to Stellenbosch, before joining Philadelphia Union.

Why are Rangers seeking to sign Olwethu Makhanya?

Rangers are seeking to sign Olwethu Makhanya as a potential replacement for John Soutar, who could leave the club.

What is the status of Olwethu Makhanya's deal with Rangers?

A deal is likely in the summer, with Rangers keeping a close eye on Makhanya.

How many matches did Olwethu Makhanya play for Philadelphia Union?

Olwethu Makhanya made 53 appearances in all competitions for Philadelphia Union.

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