Rangers tipped for huge resale profit from South African star Makhanya

Rangers, desperate for more composure against high‑pressing opponents, secured 22‑year‑old South African centre‑back Olwethu Makhanya from Philadelphia Union for around £3 million on a four‑year deal; the huge fee was justified by an assured display in his first Old Firm derby, helping a 3‑0 cup win over Celtic.

Why Rangers needed a new centre‑back

Rangers required greater composure when opponents press high, a quality that had been lacking in recent league matches. The club also sought a mobile partnership at the heart of defence to complement Emmanuel Fernandez.

The firm investment came from Philadelphia Union, with Makhanya arriving on a four‑year contract for roughly £3 million. The 22‑year‑old South African brings a blend of physicality and ball‑playing ability.

His debut came in the Premier Sports Cup quarter‑final, where he helped Rangers beat Celtic 3‑0 at Ibrox. He formed a composed partnership with Emmanuel Fernandez, dealt with Celtic’s attacking threat and displayed calm passing and strong tackling.

Makhanya's impact and resale potential

Daily Record journalist Andy Newport, speaking on Hotline Live on September 13, called Makhanya a “proper classy operator” and suggested Rangers could sell him for multiple times the £3 million fee if his progress continues.

The report points to Calvin Bassey’s £20 million move to Ajax as an example of the type of value Rangers could eventually chase.

In the 2025 campaign Makhanya made 34 appearances, started 32 matches, played 2,890 minutes, recorded 44 interceptions and achieved a 61.2 percent defensive‑duel success rate.

Manager Derek McInnes now has another route out from the back; Makhanya can receive under pressure, play vertical passes and step into midfield, freeing Dujon Sterling and Tuur Rommens to attack with greater confidence.

What Rangers can gain from his development hinges on consistency across the full season. A sustained run of starts, strong European displays and further South African recognition could push his market value well beyond the initial fee, echoing the profit realised from Bassey’s resale.