Orlando Pirates Poised to Revive Andre de Jong Pursuit Ahead of January Window

Andre de Jong may have played his final match for Stellenbosch FC, with fresh indications that Orlando Pirates are preparing to revive their long-standing interest in the New Zealand international ahead of the January transfer window.

image:  Lorenzo Kohler

by: Lwandiso Simanga 

Andre de Jong may have already played his final match for Stellenbosch FC, with new indications suggesting that Orlando Pirates are preparing to reignite their interest in the New Zealand forward ahead of the January transfer window.

Pirates have tried twice this year to secure De Jong’s signature first in July and again on September deadline day but both attempts collapsed, largely because Stellenbosch could not secure a timely replacement. Despite those setbacks, insiders maintained that the Buccaneers had never abandoned their pursuit.

Now, the landscape appears to be shifting. Sources close to Stellenbosch reveal growing uncertainty around De Jong’s future, with whispers that the attacker may have already bowed out for the club. Although no official statement has been issued, confidence is rising that a January move is increasingly likely, and Pirates are reportedly monitoring the situation closely.

The Soweto giants strengthened their frontline earlier this season, adding Yanela Mbuthuma and several other attacking options under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. Yet inconsistency, injuries, and unexplained absences among their forwards have forced a reassessment of the squad’s firepower. Questions over Tshegofatso Mabasa’s long-term role and Boitumelo Radiopane’s absence from matchday squads have added to the concern.

While Mbuthuma, Evidence Makgopa, and newcomers like Tshepang Moremi and Oswin Appollis have provided important contributions, Pirates still lack a reliable, consistent finisher  a gap De Jong is seen as capable of filling. His proven PSL pedigree, versatility, and tireless movement have long appealed to the Buccaneers and remain key reasons he is back on their radar.

For Stellenbosch, the potential departure poses a significant challenge. The club is no stranger to losing standout performers, but letting De Jong go could leave a notable void as they push for another strong Betway Premiership campaign and aim to progress in continental competitions.

As discussions reportedly intensify, the coming weeks may determine whether Pirates can finally land their long-time target  and whether De Jong has indeed played his last minutes in Stellenbosch colours. The saga is shaping up to be one of the defining transfer stories of the upcoming window.