When Rangers may need to replace Olwethu Makhanya as transfer reveal emerges

Olwethu Makhanya has had a fantastic start to his Rangers career.

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

The Gers had clear targets this summer, knowing that they were light in this area after Derek Cornelius and Nasser Djiga returned to their respective parent clubs.

Emmanuel Fernandez needed a partner at the back, and Makhanya's profile was identified as the best fit for the former.

Derek McInnes has already raved about the addition, who is currently on international duty with Makhanya.

However, how long can Rangers expect to keep Makhanya in Govan?

When Rangers may need to replace Olwethu Makhanya

Makhanya has earned plaudits from pundits and teammates alike since arriving at Ibrox.

The 22-year-old's strong start in Govan helped him earn a call-up to South Africa's national team ahead of the break, where he has since made his competitive debut for his country.

According to the Rangers Review, the Light Blues beat the likes of Wolves, Middlesbrough, KAA Gent and Danny Rohl's RB Salzburg.

He was identified through the data scouting system and was watched by club officials several times in person.

A "faultless" start to his Rangers career has reportedly put his name on the radar of other clubs already.

There is a possibility that both Makhanya and Fernandez could "attract interest" next summer, as the Gers may need to look at their centre-back picture once again.

They will be able to assess their buy option for Ben Godfrey, who joined Rangers on an initial season-long loan.

What should Rangers' price for Makhanya be set at?

Makhanya's contract could see him stay at Rangers for five years, but football isn't always as simple as that.

Rangers have seen several top-class defenders come and go in recent years, including club-record sale Calvin Bassey, who now plays regularly in the Premier League with Fulham.

Though Rangers bought Makhanya for as little as £3m, he could easily be worth over triple that already.

He's become an international player already at Ibrox, also showcasing his skill in the Old Firm derby, with two wins out of two against Celtic so far.

However, McInnes will be keen to keep him for as long as possible.