Published 3 days ago • loading... • Updated 2 days ago
Rangers Signs South Africa Defender Makhanya From MLS to Challenge Title-Holding Celtic
The 22-year-old center back joins on a four-year deal as Rangers add defensive depth in a push to catch Celtic.
On Thursday, South Africa defender Olwethu Makhanya joined Rangers from Philadelphia Union, signing a four-year deal as part of a major squad overhaul to challenge rivals Celtic.
Rangers paid a £3 million fee for the defender, who made almost 50 appearances for the Union and won the Supporters Shield before representing South Africa at this summer's World Cup.
"For me, it has always been a dream to play football in Europe," Makhanya said, describing himself as a "composed centre-back" who is "quick, strong" and comfortable on the ball.
Coach Derek McInnes manages simultaneous squad changes as Nedim Bajrami nears an exit to Al Taawoun, while Makhanya is available for Friday's Premiership opener against Dundee United.
Rangers seeks to challenge Celtic, which has dominated the league in 14 of the past 15 seasons, while preparing for a Europa League qualifying match next Thursday in Poland.