American club say no to R65 million for Bafana Bafana star
· The South African
The latest offer was worth more than €3.5 million (R65 million), but the MLS club refused to sell Makhanya.
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Philadelphia Union have now turned down four separate offers for the 22-year-old left centre-back, according to iDiski Times journalist Lorenz Kohler.
The latest proposal came from a top Belgian club and would have been the biggest transfer fee ever received for the South African defender.
Kohler revealed that sources close to the player claim Makhanya has been left “devastated” by the latest rejection. The disappointment has grown after two of his former Philadelphia Union teammates secured moves to Europe this year for transfer fees lower than the rejected Belgian bid.
Scottish giants Rangers are now preparing to table an offer.
OLWETHU MAKHANYA’S EUROPEAN DREAM STALLS
The Durban-born defender, who first emerged in the Marumo Gallants DStv Diski Challenge team, was scouted buy Stellenbosch FC. He soon enjoyed a remarkable rise since breaking through at Stellies.
He established himself during the 2022/23 campaign, earning a nomination for the South African Young Footballer of the Year award while also winning the 2022/23 Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player accolade after impressing in the Betway Premiership.
Makhanya completed a permanent move to Philadelphia Union in July 2023 as the club’s first-ever Under-22 Initiative signing. He initially starred for Philadelphia Union II before becoming a first-team regular. He formed a formidable partnership with Jakob Glesnes during the club’s Supporters’ Shield-winning campaign.
His impressive club performances also earned him a place in Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He did not feature during the tournament. However he was part of the historic South African squad that reached the knockout stages for the first time.
PHILADELPHIA UNION HOLD FIRM
Despite strong interest from Europe, Philadelphia Union have shown no willingness to cash in on one of their prized assets. The club’s stance has frustrated Makhanya’s camp, especially with record-breaking offers continuing to arrive.
Four bids have been rejected. Attention will now turn to whether the MLS outfit soften their position before the transfer window closes. For now, Makhanya’s long-awaited move to European football remains on hold despite growing demand for his signature.