Rangers are turning their attention to Africa as they look to strengthen their squad for next season. Walter Smith has confirmed that the Ibrox club are interested in signing Bafana Bafana centre-back Bongani Khumalo and striker Katlego Mphela.

The pair starred for South Africa in the World Cup and though the hosts failed to qualify for the knockout stages, the team impressed against Mexico, Uruguay and France. However, the players caught the eye of other clubs and Rangers could face competition to land both.

Rangers assistant manager Ally McCoist is thought to have spotted the players’ potential while in South Africa doing media work and Walter Smith confirmed Rangers were following up on that interest.

“We are seriously considering both these players,” the manager said.

“I believe they could both fit in well for us.

”Contact has been made but we’ll need to wait and see what happens in the coming weeks.”

Mphela and Khumalo both got on the scoresheet during the World Cup finals, as shown in our video. Their displays have seen them attract the attention of English clubs and Rangers may have to act quickly to get their men.

Supersport United defender Khumalo is believed to be on Harry Redknapp’s radar. The 23-year old, who has 14 caps for his country, is thought to be wanted on trial by Tottenham Hotspur.

Mphela, who finished as top scorer in the South African league last season, has already been linked with a move to Birmingham City, though Alex McLeish has since signed Serbian forward Nikola Zigic. The 24 year old South African has already stated that he is ready to move abroad.

“I don’t want to play in the PSL  any longer,” he said. “I feel I am ready for a bigger league now.”

Rangers have already been linked with a bid for Rapid Vienna star Nikica Jelavic, as revealed by STV Sport on Monday. Smith is looking to add to his squad after losing several players since the end of last season and saw a deal for Burnley winger Chris Eagles fall through earlier this month.