Stellenbosch FC’s top striker, Andre de Jong, has remained relatively unnoticed by major teams such as Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs, and Mamelodi Sundowns.
Over the past three years, Stellies has emerged as one of the strongest teams in the league, winning the 2023 Carling Knockout and reaching several finals under the guidance of coach Steve Barker.
However, the departure of key players such as Deano van Rooyen, Iqraam Rayners, and Fawaaz Basadien has left the team struggling in the 2025/26 season. Barker’s men will need to start from scratch to build a competitive squad again.
One player who has stayed with Stellies is New Zealand international Andre de Jong. After three years in which he scored 19 goals in 111 matches, interest from Pirates only began to emerge towards the end of the transfer deadline.
In September, SABC Sport reported that the Buccaneers were looking to sign the 28-year-old forward, but the deal ultimately fell through.
What do Pirates, Chiefs, and Sundowns need with a striker like de Jong?
De Jong is known for his work ethic and versatility. Although he often flies under the radar, he has significantly contributed to the team’s success. He possesses the ability to score goals in crucial moments, often arriving late in the box. His movement off the ball enables him to evade markers and create opportunities for other strikers.
If he signs with Pirates, the Stellies striker could play as a number 10, providing assists for players like Evidence Makgopa and Tshegofatso Mabasa. Reports indicate that the Buccaneers will pursue De Jong again in January.
Amakhosi, on the other hand, have Mduduzi Shabalala who can play as a 10 but having someone like de Jong would have earned them more points given how the New Zealand attacker has a knack for scoring important goals.
