Olwethu Makhanya Rangers Transfer Plans Revealed by Agent as Worry Emerges

Olwethu Makhanya could attract interest from English clubs during the January transfer window following his impressive start to life at Rangers.

The South African defender joined the Light Blues for a reported £3million in the summer, but his performances have already sparked suggestions that his market value could rise significantly.

At just 22, Makhanya has quickly established himself as an important figure under Derek McInnes, with his displays raising the prospect of a move to one of Europe’s major leagues in the future.

Premier League clubs could take notice of his progress, although Rangers remain in a strong position to determine what happens next.

The centre-back signed a four-year contract at Ibrox, giving the Scottish side considerable control over his future as interest potentially grows.

His developing partnership with Emmanuel Fernandez has also been a positive for McInnes, with the defensive pairing offering Rangers a solid foundation as they pursue success in the Scottish Premiership.

Will Olwethu Makhanya leave Rangers in January?

Makhanya continued to impress during Rangers’ 2-2 draw against Dundee, producing another encouraging performance despite his side being unable to extend their winning run.

The defender has exceeded expectations since arriving in Scotland from Philadelphia Union, quickly adapting to his new surroundings and demonstrating the qualities that persuaded Rangers to secure his signature.

However, his rapid progress has also created a potential concern for those hoping to see him remain at Ibrox for the foreseeable future.

His representative, Rob Moore, reportedly fears that an English club could attempt to sign the South Africa international when the transfer window reopens in January.

The possibility of interest from south of the border is an indication of how quickly Makhanya’s reputation has grown since joining Rangers.

Nevertheless, his agent appears to favour a longer-term plan rather than an immediate departure.

Speaking to the Daily Record on 20 October, former Rangers captain Richard Gough explained the approach Moore would like to see taken with the defender.

He said: “What Rob really wants to happen is for the lad to stay at Ibrox for a couple of years say, get a hundred games or so under his belt and then make the move down south when he’s really ready for it.”

That approach would allow Makhanya to continue developing in Glasgow, gain substantial first-team experience and potentially earn a move to England at a more suitable stage of his career.

For now, Rangers have him under contract and are not under immediate pressure to sell, although any substantial interest could test their resolve.

Which Rangers players could be sold next summer?

Rangers would have little reason to rush into selling Makhanya after just one season, particularly given the influence he has already had on their defensive performances.

The South African has brought greater stability to the backline and appears to be developing an effective understanding with Fernandez.

Keeping that partnership together could prove important as McInnes looks to build a team capable of challenging domestically and competing in Europe.

Even if Rangers secure the Scottish Premiership title this season, retaining their strongest performers could be crucial to making further progress on the continental stage.

Selling Makhanya prematurely would risk disrupting a defence that has shown encouraging signs of improvement.

Instead, the Ibrox hierarchy may need to consider other options if they decide to raise funds through player sales in the summer.

Former Peterborough United defender Emmanuel Fernandez’s future could also become a topic of discussion if suitable offers arrive, although any decision would need to account for his role in the current side.

Ultimately, Makhanya’s immediate future appears to be at Rangers, with his agent’s reported preference pointing towards a longer spell in Glasgow before a potential move to England.

His performances between now and the end of the season could determine just how much attention he attracts, but Rangers will hope to enjoy the benefits of his development for considerably longer before considering a sale.