Pirates Want De Jong to Boost Competition for Makgopa & Mabasa
SABC Sport reports that Orlando Pirates have renewed their interest in Stellenbosch FC striker Andre De Jong as the club looks to strengthen its attacking options during the January transfer window.
According to the public broadcaster, Pirates first approached Stellenbosch on 22 September in an effort to sign the New Zealand international before the deadline. Stellenbosch were open to negotiating, but the transfer collapsed because they did not have enough time to secure a replacement.
De Jong stayed in the Western Cape for the first half of the season, but with the mid-season window opening on 1 January, SABC Sport understands that Pirates have reopened talks as they seek more depth and competition for Evidence Makgopa and Tshegofatso Mabasa.
Negotiations between the clubs are expected to resume in the coming weeks. Insiders told SABC Sport that, because discussions were already advanced in September, fewer hurdles are expected this time around. However, Stellenbosch may again hesitate if they cannot quickly identify a suitable replacement — a key factor that could delay or derail the deal.
De Jong recently earned call-ups to the New Zealand national team for friendlies against Poland, Norway and Colombia. With the All Whites already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the forward is eager to secure regular game time and strengthen his bid for a place in the final squad. A move to Pirates could give him the platform to take the next step in his career.