Former Rangers full-back Alan Hutton delivered a bombshell warning for the club, straight out of the Daily Record and relayed by the Glasgow Times: Olwethu Makhanya, our defensive rock who has been absolutely killing it, could be snatched up in the January transfer window. It’s a real fear that we could see a repeat of the frustrating Jean-Alain Boumsong transfer saga.
Makhanya’s Unbelievable Arrival
This 24-year-old South African defender, who arrived from Philadelphia Union, has been nothing short of immense. Hutton didn’t mince words, calling Makhanya one of Rangers’ best signings in a long time. Think about it: how many MLS arrivals have struggled to find their footing in Scottish football? Makhanya? He’s just taken everything in his stride, settled in seamlessly, a bit under the radar. Derek McInnes clearly sees it too, giving him a prominent role in his defensive plans almost immediately. Six Scottish Premiership appearances already in the 2026/27 season, and while he hasn’t hit the back of the net or registered an assist, his defensive performances are why he’s here and why he’s turning heads.
The Ghost of Transfers Past Haunts Ibrox
Hutton’s concern isn’t just a random thought; it’s rooted in history. He’s talking about the Boumsong precedent, remember? Jean-Alain Boumsong was a successful signing, but he was sold to Newcastle United for a hefty £8 million after only six months at Ibrox. That’s a lasting example of how quickly a standout player can leave, and it’s the exact blueprint Hutton fears English clubs will follow for Makhanya this January. It’s “part and parcel of football these days,” Hutton admitted. He knows Rangers’ model involves bringing in players, developing them, and then moving them on for profit. But man, it stings when he says, “Unfortunately for Rangers, the bigger clubs are going to pinch their best players.” It’s the brutal reality of the game, and it makes you nervous for our guy.
Can We Keep Our Star Defender?
The biggest question on every supporter’s mind is if we can actually keep Makhanya long-term. Hutton believes fans are desperate for exactly that. He’s only young, and this move to Europe is just the “first stage” in his development, showing what he’s capable of. Hutton hopes he stays, and honestly, don’t we all? He sees McInnes building something special, aiming to challenge for major honours, lift silverware, and win the league. Makhanya should be a central part of that future! Hutton thinks he has “so much time on his side” and doesn’t “need to jump ship too early.” But then comes the cold, hard truth: “money talks, unfortunately.” The January transfer window is going to be incredibly tense. We’re seeing signs of a team truly coming together under Derek McInnes, with players like Makhanya at the core. Can we hold onto him and build towards that silverware? Our season’s trajectory might just depend on it.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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