NafisaThe countdown to Rangers’ Premiership opener against Dundee United has been dominated by transfer speculation, but Derek McInnes has now delivered the update supporters had been waiting for as the Ibrox club edges closer to strengthening his squad once again.
With excitement building ahead of Friday night’s trip to Tannadice, Rangers are putting the finishing touches on what could become another important piece of business before the transfer window gathers even more pace.
McInnes has already overseen a busy summer rebuild, bringing several new faces to Ibrox while also confirming Lawrence Shankland as the club’s new captain ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
However, the Rangers boss has made no secret of the fact that further reinforcements are still required, particularly in central defence.
One player now edging closer to completing a move is Philadelphia Union defender Olwethu Makhanya, with Rangers hopeful of wrapping up a deal worth around £3 million.
Speaking ahead of Friday’s league opener, McInnes confirmed negotiations have reached an advanced stage and admitted he hopes supporters could receive official confirmation very soon.
“That’s one that is close,” McInnes revealed.
“He fits a similar profile to a lot of the business we’ve tried to do – good age, a lot of athleticism and big potential.
“He’s coming from MLS into a different country and style of football, but we believe he has the attributes to cope with that.
“Looking at us defensively, we’re short in numbers, so it was important to act quickly to get one in.
“We probably still need another couple of defenders before the window closes, but getting this one resolved this week, hopefully with an announcement tonight or tomorrow, would be a big step and we’d be delighted.”
The South African international would become Rangers’ eighth signing of an ambitious summer window that has already transformed McInnes’ squad.
Strengthening the heart of the defence has become increasingly important following the expected departure of John Souttar, while Clinton Nsiala is no longer considered part of the first-team plans.
At present, Emmanuel Fernandez and Ben Godfrey remain the club’s only recognised senior centre-backs, making Makhanya’s arrival a priority before the transfer deadline.
The 20-year-old has built an impressive reputation during his time in Major League Soccer with Philadelphia Union, where his pace, athleticism and composure have attracted interest from clubs across Europe.
McInnes believes those qualities perfectly match the recruitment strategy Rangers have adopted this summer, with the club targeting young players capable of making an immediate impact while also possessing significant long-term potential.
While Makhanya appears to be edging ever closer to Ibrox, the Rangers manager has also made it clear that the defensive rebuild is far from complete.
The Light Blues are expected to remain active in the market after Makhanya’s arrival, with McInnes openly admitting he wants at least two more defenders before the transfer window closes.
For now, though, all eyes are on the completion of Makhanya’s transfer, with Rangers hopeful the deal can be finalised before Friday night’s Premiership opener against Dundee United, handing supporters yet another reason for optimism as the McInnes era officially gets underway.
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