NafisaRangers’ search for defensive reinforcements has taken another dramatic twist after transfer target Olwethu Makhanya reportedly failed to return to Philadelphia Union training, with tensions escalating over his future.
The 22-year-old South African defender is believed to be determined to secure a move to Europe after starring for his country at the World Cup, where South Africa reached the Round of 32 before being knocked out by Canada.
However, instead of reporting back for pre-season with Philadelphia Union, Makhanya has now gone absent amid growing frustration behind the scenes.
According to MLS insider Tom Bogert, the defender believes the American club failed to honour a previous understanding that he would be allowed to move to Europe if a suitable offer arrived.
Bogert revealed: “Olwethu Makhanya hasn’t returned to the Philadelphia Union as he wants to leave. Makhanya believes club broke promise to let him go to Europe if offer came. Philly rejected a bid from Belgium. Philly insists it was a general ‘if an offer makes sense, we’ll do it’. Club believes value wasn’t met. Rangers reached out to Philly and Makhanya’s camp but nothing advanced.”
The latest developments will certainly alert Rangers, who continue reshaping Derek McInnes’ squad ahead of the new Premiership season. After already strengthening several positions this summer, the Ibrox hierarchy remain determined to add another centre-back before the transfer window closes.
While no official bid has yet been submitted, Rangers have already made contact with both Philadelphia Union and the player’s representatives to assess the possibility of a deal. The MLS side are understood to value Makhanya at more than £3 million after rejecting a similar offer from Belgium.
McInnes has already brought Ben Godfrey to Ibrox on loan from Atalanta, but the manager is still eager to add another permanent central defender. That need has become even greater with uncertainty surrounding John Souttar, who continues to attract interest from both Leicester City and Sheffield United.
With Makhanya now openly pushing for a European move and relations appearing strained with his current club, Rangers could be handed a major opportunity if negotiations begin to progress. The defender’s desire to leave is no longer in doubt, and if Philadelphia eventually soften their stance, Ibrox could become his next destination.
As Rangers continue their aggressive summer rebuild, supporters will now watch closely to see whether this dramatic transfer saga ends with another new arrival in Glasgow.
Nafisa
