Orlando Pirates could waste little time in the January transfer window.
Leading reporter Sinethemba Makonco suggested the Sea Robbers closed a deal for Andre de Jong from Stellenbosch FC.
The window officially opened on 1 January. Indications suggest an announcement is coming sooner rather than later.
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STELLENBOSCH ATTACKER ANDRE DE JONG TO STELLENBOSCH FC
It seems the Buccaneers worked on the deal for months. After failing to land the Stellenbosch FC midfielder in September, Orlando Pirates appear to have finally won the race for the 29-year-old New Zealander.
De Jong will arrive with strong Premier Soccer League (PSL) experience. Across his time in South Africa, he has registered eight goals and 11 assists in 113 league appearances.
WHAT HE WILL OFFER ORLANDO PIRATES
In the current campaign, de Jong has contributed three goals and one assist in 22 matches. Last season he recorded eight goals and five assists across 47 appearances in all competitions.
However, his value goes beyond the numbers.
De Jong is regarded as one of the league’s most intelligent and selfless attacking midfielders. He works tirelessly between the lines, creates space for teammates, and brings balance to attacking structures rather than chasing individual moments.
His career spans New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. In Mzansi, he played for AmaZulu and Royal AM, and he brings a total of 69 goals and 37 assists in 260 senior matches.
At Orlando Stadium, competition will be fierce. De Jong is expected to challenge Sipho Mbule, Patrick Maswanganyi and Kabelo Dlamini for the number 10 role. Additionally, Relebohile Mofokeng has also featured centrally at times.
But De Jong’s direct style, movement and work rate could offer Orlando Pirates a different attacking option as the season enters its decisive phase.