How Olwethu Makhanya can help Emmanuel Fernandez bounce back at Rangers
Rangers saw massive value in signing Olwethu Makhanya from Philadelphia Union this transfer window.
The Gers were in desperate need of reinforcements in defence, and still are, but the South Africa international has eased some concerns.
Derek McInnes now has the 22-year-old at his disposal as an option alongside Emmanuel Fernandez and Ben Godfrey.
Nasser Djiga partnered the former Peterborough United ace at Ibrox towards the end of last season, but he may not be missed as much.
The Nigeria international has shown a lot of potential at the Glaswegian outfit, although he left fans frustrated with his performance against Dundee United at Tannadice Park.
It shouldn't be a surprise that Makhanya emerged as a prime target for the Govan side, given his abilities.
What Rangers are now saying about Olwethu Makhanya
Ibrox News covered all the developments of Rangers' move for Makhanya, with the defender signing a four-year deal after arriving for £3million from the Union.
The Gers wanted to bring Djiga back, but it looks like they've settled for the next best thing or maybe even better.
According to the Rangers Review on 3 August, one source at Ibrox has compared the South Africa international's physical profile to the Wolves defender.
With finances prohibiting the Glaswegian outfit from re-signing Djiga, Makhanya was seen as someone with a similar skillset for a fraction of the price.
How Emmanuel Fernandez could be biggest winner after Olwethu Makhanya transfer
Fernandez has raised some eyebrows among the Rangers fanbase after his lack of urgency to stop Lachlan Rose from scoring.
While the 24-year-old saw his stock rise in the second half of last season, the defender's start to life in G51 was underwhelming.
Fernandez's best spell at the Govan side came when he played alongside Djiga and Makhanya could potentially be the perfect partner for him.
The South African defender is comfortable playing on either side in the centre of defence and it will be interesting to see how McInnes will use him.
For now, it remains to be seen whether Makhanya will be available against Jagiellonia Bialystok on 6 August, with the Scottish manager hinting at visa issues.