Rangers decide on Olwethu Makhanya transfer as John Souttar has new destination

Rangers seem to have plenty of options on their radar to replace John Souttar this summer.

The Light Blues are open to letting the Scotland international leave despite a lack of depth in the backline.

Philadelphia Union defender Olwethu Makhanya, who was part of South Africa's 2026 World Cup squad, has been linked with the Gers.

Derek McInnes has made his decision on Makhanya's signing as Sheffield United enter the race for Souttar.

The former Hearts ace is attracting interest from down south after being told he won't be a big part of the Scottish manager's plans in Govan.

The Glaswegian outfit have a clear priority in the coming weeks to strengthen their backline, but it remains to be seen who they will end up signing.

What does Derek McInnes think of Olwethu Makhanya transfer to Rangers?

Makhanya was proposed to the Gers a few weeks back as they look for Souttar's immediate replacement.

Chris Wilder has long been an admirer of the Scotland international and talks are ongoing between him and Sheffield United.

According to The Scottish Sun on 14 July, while Makhanya has been linked with a move to Ibrox, he doesn't feature predominantly in McInnes' plans.

Souttar is likely to leave the Glaswegian outfit sooner rather than later, but fans in G51 are still no closer to learning who will replace him.

Who could Derek McInnes sign instead?

Ibrox News have covered reports of Rangers' interest in FC Troyes defender Sankhoun Diawara.

With the 20-year-old French youngster's contract entering its final year, the Gers have presented him with an ambitious offer.

Earlier this summer, Excelsior Rotterdam's Casper Widell emerged as a target at Ibrox, but those links have since gone cold.

With Emmanuel Fernandez and Ben Godfrey the only two senior centre-back options McInnes is relying on for now, defensive additions can't wait any longer.

The Glaswegian outfit don't have mucy time left before the opening game of the season against Dundee United at Tannadice Park on 31 July.

Six signings have been made so far in Govan, but the next ones should certainly address the situation in defence.