£12m Star Could Leave Rangers In January Amid Huge Interest: Should Rangers Cash In Or Keep Him? | OneFootball

Rangers face a January dilemma after a remarkable start from Olwethu Makhanya, with a report suggesting a big offer from a top European league could force the club into a difficult decision.

The 22-year-old centre-back joined from Philadelphia Union for around £3 million in July, signing an initial four-year deal with an option for another season. Since then, his progress has been striking. Makhanya has quickly become a key figure for Derek McInnes, helping Rangers put together six straight victories before the international break.

Makhanya gives Rangers a new January problem

His biggest moments came against Celtic. Rangers won both Old Firm meetings, and Makhanya delivered commanding displays in each game. He showed composure on the ball, defended aggressively and handled difficult situations without looking overawed by the occasion. Those performances have inevitably attracted attention.

CIES Football Observatory now values Makhanya at £12.3 million, more than four times the reported purchase fee. The figure comes from CIES’ statistical model and places him ninth among Scottish Premiership players in its latest valuation study. It represents an enormous rise in estimated value after fewer than two months at Ibrox.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – SEPTEMBER 09: Olwethu Makhanya of Rangers is seen during the William Hill Premiership 2026/27 match between Glasgow Rangers and St. Mirren at Ibrox Stadium on September 09, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider has now reported that Rangers could accept a huge January offer if a club from one of Europe’s major leagues makes a serious approach. O’Rourke says Rangers want to keep Makhanya for at least a full campaign, yet financial realities could influence their stance if an exceptional bid arrives.

Should Rangers reject January bids?

Rangers should reject January bids, unless an offer rises far beyond the current £12.3 million CIES valuation. The timing is important. McInnes has built real momentum, and removing a starting centre-back who has performed so well against Celtic would create a needless sporting problem during a title push.

There is another reason to wait. Makhanya’s contract gives Rangers control, while his age leaves plenty of room for further development and another increase in value. A £9 million profit might look attractive on paper, but it would mean little if Rangers lose ground in the Premiership because their defence weakens.

The club paid around £3 million only weeks ago, so there is no urgent need to sell. A strong season could increase his price further, while European football would give Rangers another reason to keep their best players together. For now, the sensible call is simple, and that is to keep Makhanya, chase the title and revisit the market after the campaign right now.