Olwethu Makhanya could now be worth 'serious money' after Rangers transfer raised eyebrows

Olwethu Makhanya has been a revelation at Rangers this season.

The Gers signed the centre-back for around £3million from Philadelphia Union in the summer transfer window and he has exceeded a lot of expectations.

With the South Africa international forming an impressive partnership with Emmanuel Fernandez, his future already seems uncertain.

Makhanya's performances at Ibrox have arguably made him the standout player in the latest William Hill Premiership campaign.

It feels like a matter of time before top teams across Europe look to sign the 22-year-old.

Doubts surrounded the defender's ability when he first came from America, but he has proven everyone wrong.

What's next for Olwethu Makhanya at Rangers?

Makhanya is tipped to break Scottish transfer records if he continues to dominate games for the Gers.

Scotsman sports editor Mark Atkinson has picked the South African ace as the player who has impressed him most so far this season in Scotland.

While some eyebrows were raised after the Gers signed the centre-back from the MLS, the move to Ibrox hasn't fazed him.

Makhanya is everything fans in G51 would hope for in a defender - strong, technically sound and with a good passing range - but his situation in Govan will be one to keep an eye on as he could make the club a hefty profit soon.

Speaking on the Scottish Football Podcast, Atkinson said, "I've been really impressed by Olwethu Makhanya at Rangers, the centre-half.

"When a club bring in a young defender from the MLS, you immediately raise your eyebrows and go, 'I wonder if this guy's going to cut it?'

"Makhanya has been excellent. He's just got better and better as each game goes. He's got all the modern attributes for a centre-half, he's quick.

"On current trajectory, I think you're looking at a player that could make Rangers some serious money."

Why Ibrox defensive concern must be addressed in January

Dujon Sterling, Fernandez, Makhanya and James Penrice have formed an exceptional backline for Rangers in recent matches.

The right-back and two centre-backs have provided defensive stability at the Gers, while the Scottish defender gives Derek McInnes' team balance as an inverted full-back.

Ross McCrorie and Kosta Nedeljkovic can provide cover for Sterling and Tuur Rommens is also at the Light Blues' disposal.

At centre-half, Ben Godfrey is the only other player McInnes seems to trust, with John Souttar firmly out of the Glaswegian outfit's plans.

In January, the Govan side should look to add depth at centre-back as injuries to the likes of Frenandez or Makhanya could derail their season.