Is Andre de Jong on his way to Orlando Pirates? Stellies striker strongly linked with Bucs
According to reports, Stellenbosch FC's Andre de Jong is on the verge of completing a move to Orlando Pirates.
Image: BackpagePix
Stellenbosch FC are believed to be in advanced discussions over a potential deal that could see New Zealand forward Andre de Jong join Soweto giants Orlando Pirates.
According to reports, the move may be finalised when the transfer window opens on January 1, although neither club has officially confirmed the talks.
The Sea Robbers have been trying to sign the 10-cap New Zealand international since the end of last season, but they could not reach an agreement with the Cape Winelands side. De Jong has been a productive member of the Stellies squad since joining from Royal AM in 2023.
While not the most prolific striker, he excels at linking defence and midfield into attack, with a sharp first touch and the composure needed to operate in tight spaces and aid build-up play. He can also function as a target man, holding up the ball to bring teammates into play, giving Stellenbosch tactical flexibility.
Those are qualities that will come in handy for Pirates as they aim to unseat Mamelodi Sundowns as the kings of South African football.
De Jong began his career in his native New Zealand in 2013 with Wanderers SC. After several club moves over six years, he made the switch to South Africa in 2019 when he signed for AmaZulu. Three seasons later, he joined Shauwn Mkhize’s Royal AM before moving to Stellenbosch in 2023.
For Pirates, the signing reinforces their ambition to stay ahead in a season where they, not Sundowns, are setting the pace. Bringing in a tactically intelligent, selfless forward like De Jong gives the Buccaneers another reliable option in tight matches and adds balance to their attacking structure.
If he settles quickly and replicates the consistency he showed in the Cape, the Kiwi could become one of Pirates’ shrewdest acquisitions of the campaign.
IOL Sport