Philadelphia Union Defender Olwethu Makhanya. Photo by Kyle Rodden/CSM/Shutterstock (15453779aj)
Saturday Feb 28, 2026. 10:59
Philadelphia Union’s Olwethu Makhanya could be poised for a big-money move to Europe as his performances continue to draw eyes and interest from the continent.
This is according to Lorenz Kohler of iDiski Times.
Having been capped for South Africa at U20 and U23 levels, Makhanya joined Philadelphia Union from Stellenbosch for a reported fee of R15 million at 19-years-old.
He struggled for game time in the club’s first team before the arrival of fellow South African and former Bafana Bafana international Bradley Carnell.
Under Carnell’s guidance, Makhanya shot to the top, playing 39 games in the league and helping the club secure the MLS Supporters’ Shield last season.
According to Kohler, sources close to the club have revealed that the club has had enquiries from clubs in England, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Scotland this off season over the player’s availability.
The 21-year-old’s agent, Matthew Moore, believes that Makhanya was one of the best at his position in the MLS last season, as well as one of the best South African products to break out in the last year.
“He was one of the best three centre-backs in the league last season, an absolute standout,” said Moore, speaking to iDiski Times.
“I have no doubt he has been the best South African centre-back, for the past year now, and he has all the attributes you need in order to make it as a top quality modern day centre-back. He’s got good height at 1.88, good speed, can play in a defensive high line with the ability to recover, strong in the duels, calm on the ball and can break the lines with the ball at his feet.”
While Moore did not give anything away, he claimed that a potential move for Makhanya to Europe could be one of the biggest in South Africa football history.
“Let’s just say that I have no doubt that he will be one of the biggest, if not the biggest transfer in South African football history when he makes his move to Europe,” he said.
By Nic Gleeson