Rangers Legend Sends Clear Message On £3m Defender: Should McInnes Reject January Bids?

Rangers fans have been warned that January could be dangerous for Olwethu Makhanya, and the warning comes from someone who knows what it feels like. Alan Hutton, a former Ibrox defender, has said he fears the South African could follow the path of Jean-Alain Boumsong, who left for Newcastle after a whirlwind spell in Glasgow. Hutton accepts that Rangers’ model is to buy, develop and sell for profit, but he admits it would hurt to lose a player he calls one of the club’s best signings in years.

It is easy to see why the concern is growing. Makhanya cost around £3m from Philadelphia Union in the summer, and he has looked far bigger than that price tag. His composure on the ball and one-v-one defending were on show in the 3-0 derby win over Celtic. Brentford, Sunderland and Bournemouth have reportedly sent scouts, and clubs across Europe are said to be watching. Hutton’s logic is simple: if the form continues towards the new year, people will start hovering.

So should Derek McInnes slam the door? Probably yes. Makhanya only arrived in July on a four-year deal, and McInnes is trying to build momentum in a season where Rangers want to close the gap on Celtic. Losing a defensive leader mid-campaign, with little time to find a replacement, could undo months of progress. Rangers also hold all the cards. There is no pressure to sell, no expiring contract and no need for quick cash.

However, football rarely works on sentiment. If a Premier League club comes in with a bid that dwarfs the original fee, perhaps approaching Scottish record territory, the board would be foolish not to listen. Even then, McInnes should demand a price that lets him buy a quality replacement before the window shuts.