Former Rangers full-back Alan Hutton has warned the club about a possible repeat of the Jean-Alain Boumsong transfer saga, according to the Daily Record, as relayed by the Glasgow Times .

Hutton fears English clubs could target Olwethu Makhanya during the January transfer window after his impressive arrival from Philadelphia Union. The 24-year-old South African defender has quickly earned a prominent role in Derek McInnes’s defensive plans.

The former Scotland international described Makhanya as one of Rangers ‘ best signings in a long time. He praised the defender’s smooth adaptation to Scottish football, particularly after Rangers experienced limited success with previous MLS arrivals.

Makhanya has made six Scottish Premiership appearances during the 2026/27 season, although he has yet to register a goal or assist. His early performances have nevertheless attracted attention from Hutton.

The former full-back recalled Boumsong’s brief spell at Ibrox. Rangers sold the French defender to Newcastle United for £8 million after only six months, creating a lasting example of how quickly a successful signing can leave.

Hutton said: “It’s a real concern that Makhanya is doing so well that somebody might come in and try to pinch him in January, similarly to what happened with Boumsong.”

He acknowledged that this is “part and parcel of football these days” and pointed out that Rangers’ model involves bringing in players, developing them, and moving them on for profit.

“Unfortunately for Rangers, the bigger clubs are going to pinch their best players,” Hutton added.