Rangers are weighing up a move for MLS defender Olwethu Makhanya as Derek McInnes looks to strengthen his defensive options ahead of the new season.
According to Sky Sports, the Ibrox club are interested in the South Africa international, who has impressed since joining MLS outfit Philadelphia Union from Stellenbosch in 2023.
Makhanya has made 53 appearances for the MLS side and could become the latest defensive addition at Rangers this summer as McInnes continues to reshape his squad.
The 22-year-old has earned glowing reviews during his development in the United States, with former Philadelphia Union head coach Bradley Carnell highlighting his rapid progress after the club exercised his contract option last November.
Carnell said: "Olwethu had a standout year in his first full MLS season. Proving himself to be an important piece of our backline, he has demonstrated maturity, consistency, and leadership at just 21 years old.
"His rapid development is a clear indication of how high his ceiling can be, and we believe he will continue to develop and make a significant impact going forward with the club."
Those qualities are likely to appeal to Rangers as McInnes looks to add both quality and long-term potential to his defensive options.
The Light Blues have already brought in Ben Godfrey to reinforce the backline, but further recruitment appears to be on the agenda after missing out on Dundee centre-back Luke Graham, who had been identified as a target under former head coach Danny Rohl.
John Souttar attracting interest
Rangers' pursuit of another defender comes as uncertainty surrounds the future of John Souttar.
Sky Sports report that Leicester City are interested in signing the Scotland international, while several Championship clubs are also monitoring his situation.
His brother Harry Souttar currently plays for the Foxes, who recently appointed ex-Ibrox boss Russell Martin to their own dugout.
Despite signing a one-year contract extension at Ibrox in February, the 29-year-old's future has come into question after he was absent from Rangers' pre-season training camp in Spain.
Souttar has been a key figure since arriving from Hearts in 2022, making more than 130 appearances for the club and helping Rangers lift the League Cup in 2023.
Should Souttar depart before the transfer window closes, Rangers would have an even greater need for defensive reinforcements, making a move for Makhanya increasingly significant as McInnes prepares for the Premiership campaign.
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