How Olwethu Makhanya's brilliance at Rangers has even made Scott Brown take notice

Olwethu Makhanya's fantastic start to his Rangers career hasn't gone unnoticed.

The centre-back joined the Bears from Philadelphia Union this summer in a deal worth £3million.

Central defence was always going to be a key area for Derek McInnes to upgrade, as the likes of Derek Cornelius and Nasser Djiga returned to their respective parent clubs.

Makhanya has already formed a formidable partnership at the back with Emmanuel Fernandez, with the Light Blues now having kept four consecutive clean sheets in all competitions.

The South African international has gained plenty of plaudits for his early performances at Ibrox, attracting even more attention after the Old Firm victory over Celtic on Sunday.

Scott Brown has been discussing Makhanya with others after the latter's recent performances for Rangers.

Scott Brown takes notice of Rangers 'animal' Olwethu Makhanya

Makhanya is only 22 years old, and still has plenty of room to develop and get better.

The centre-back is clearly one of the first names on McInnes' teamsheet, as the former Hearts boss looks to implement the defensive solidity that was on display at Tynecastle last term.

There were initially some VISA issues for the defender after he signed for the Gers, but he eventually made his debut against Hibernian and has only grown in confidence since.

His performance in the 1-0 win over the Hoops at Celtic Park has gained attention, even from the likes of Brown.

He, along with Charlie Mulgrew and Kevin Thomson, waxed lyrical about Makhanya while talking on The Breakdown podcast.

Thomson stated: "Makhanya is an animal, mate."

Brown replied: "He's looking [like] a good player."

Mulgrew then shared his thoughts and said: "He's looking brilliant, by the way. Makhanya is looking some player."

It's fair to say that everyone is appreciating the type of player that Rangers have on their hands with the defender.

The question is, will he and Fernandez keep their defensive partnership past the January window?

Will Rangers be able to keep Emmanuel Fernandez all season?

Makhanya has just signed a long-term contract, so McInnes will not be worried about the defender leaving any time soon.

But Fernandez gathered plenty of European interest in the summer, and the likes of West Ham were keen.

According to a report from the Daily Record on 23 April, the Gers would demand a significant sum for the centre-back if they were to sell him.

This is due to a hefty but undisclosed sell-on fee that Peterborough United inserted into the deal when selling the player to the Gers.

Makhanya and Fernandez look like they are both enjoying their football together, but there is no guarantee that Rangers won't entertain offers for the latter in the winter.