Orlando Pirates on Monday confirmed the worst kept secret in South African football when they unveiled New Zealand international midfielder Andre De Jong as their first January signing.
The move had been touted for weeks, but there was official confirmation from Pirates that they have secured the services of the 29-year-old from Stellenbosch FC for an undisclosed fee.
De Jong has played in the South African Premier Soccer League since the 2019/20 season, when he joined AmaZulu.
He initially battled to break through and also had a short spell with Chippa United, before moving to Stellenbosch in January 2023.
𝐀 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐁𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 ☠️.@orlandopirates is pleased to announce the signing of Andre de Jong.
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) January 5, 2026
𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞, 𝓐𝓷𝓭𝓻𝓮 🤝🏽🏴☠️!
⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/EcHxr8AvSE
It was in the Cape Winelands where he really found his feet and became a regular for the side, playing an important role in their 2023 Carling Knockout triumph, and qualification for CAF Confederation Cup football.
In all he made 113 appearances for the side (87 starts) and scored 18 goals in all competitions. For all his clubs in South Africa he has 160 appearances (112 starts) and 21 goals.
De Jong can play several positions but is most usually an attacking midfielder behind the strikers. He can also play as a centre-forward.
Pirates currently sit top of the Betway Premiership, two points ahead of second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns with a game in hand.
Their next fixture is away at Sekhukhune United on January 24.