Sunderland and Brentford monitoring Rangers defender Olwethu Makhanya

Bafana Bafana defender Olwethu Makhanya is attracting reported interest from English Premier League clubs Sunderland and Brentford after making an impressive start to his Rangers career.

The 22-year-old centre-back has quickly made an encouraging impression since moving to the Scottish giants, with his early performances prompting discussion about his potential and the transfer fee Rangers could eventually command for him.

Former Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness believes Rangers should act quickly to protect their position by offering Makhanya an improved contract.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness said extending the defender’s deal could have a major impact on his future value, particularly if interest from England develops further.

“He’s made a very positive start, and I think he’s got all that look about him, but from Rangers’ point of view, they should extend his contract now,” Wyness said.

“I know it’s early days and he’s only had a couple of games, but let’s get it in there now because they’re going to be trying to sell him; there’s no doubt at some stage, because that’s the model that they’ve got.”

Wyness said Rangers needed to ensure they were not forced into accepting a lower fee for a promising young player. He suggested that securing Makhanya on a longer-term agreement could significantly increase the club’s negotiating power.

“But they can’t afford to sell him badly, if you know what I mean. And so, they should get that contract extended now. That could make the difference between getting £8m or up to £20m,” he added.

Wyness urges Rangers to move quickly

The former Aberdeen chief executive also warned that delaying a decision could allow Makhanya to attract wider attention and give his representatives greater influence over his future.

“Rangers should be considering it right now. Once you’ve got a young talent, you’ve got to put a bit of a gamble on it and do it. I think you’ve got to act quickly; otherwise, he’ll get spotted and before you know it, the agents will be in his ear.”

Interest from Sunderland and Brentford would mark another significant stage in Makhanya’s development and underline the progress he has made since joining Rangers.

The defender has established himself as a player to watch, although his immediate priority will be to maintain the momentum of his early appearances in Scotland.

Further strong displays for Rangers could raise his profile in the English market while also strengthening his prospects with Bafana Bafana.