Bafana Bafana defender Olwethu Makhanya is reportedly attracting attention from clubs across England, Spain, Germany, France and Italy after making an impressive start to life at Rangers.
The 22-year-old central defender has quickly established himself in Glasgow since completing his move from Philadelphia Union, with his performances reportedly prompting scouts from several of Europe’s biggest leagues to monitor his progress.
Makhanya turning heads across Europe
According to reports from TEAMtalk, relayed by SoccerBeat, Makhanya is being watched by clubs in Europe’s top five leagues.
The reported interest includes teams from the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga and Ligue 1.
While there is no indication that a transfer is imminent, continued strong performances could see Rangers receive enquiries when the transfer window reopens next summer.
Makhanya’s rapid rise is particularly notable given that he has only recently arrived in Scotland.
Strong start at Rangers
The Bafana international has started all six of his league appearances, completing 540 minutes and helping Rangers keep four clean sheets.
His performances have also been reflected in his statistics, with the defender carrying a 7.46 match rating.
Makhanya has completed 323 passes at an 85.2% accuracy rate, while one of his standout displays came in Rangers’ 1-0 victory over St Mirren.
In that match, he completed 62 of 67 passes, giving him a 93% passing success rate. He also registered five progressive passes and five successful long balls.
Defensive numbers underline his impact
Makhanya has also shown his ability to contribute defensively.
Across his opening five matches, he won possession 27 times and recorded 20 clearances, four blocks and five interceptions. His clearance tally has since increased to 24.
The young defender won four of his first five tackles and has completed 30 duels overall.
He has also made his presence felt in the air, winning 13 of 24 aerial duels, while ranking third among Rangers players in that category.
His contribution in possession has been equally encouraging. Makhanya ranks second in the squad for carries, has completed four dribbles and has created four chances.
From South Africa to Rangers
Makhanya’s journey has already taken him through several stages of his young career.
He first made his mark with the Marumo Gallants reserve team before joining Stellenbosch FC.
His performances in South Africa eventually earned him a move to the United States with Philadelphia Union, where he continued his development before securing his switch to Rangers.
Now, after only a handful of league appearances in Scotland, Makhanya is reportedly on the radar of clubs across Europe’s biggest domestic leagues.
Could Rangers face a big decision next summer?
For now, Makhanya remains focused on establishing himself at Rangers and continuing his development.
However, if his current form continues, the reported interest from England, Spain, Germany, France and Italy could become an important storyline ahead of next summer’s transfer window.
Would you like to see Olwethu Makhanya remain at Rangers or make a move to one of Europe’s top five leagues next season?
