Overview
- Pirates confirmed De Jong as their first January addition on a permanent deal for an undisclosed fee after months of pursuit.
- Stellenbosch issued a farewell message to the 29-year-old, who previously played for AmaZulu and Royal AM before joining Stellies in 2023.
- De Jong can operate as a centre-forward or number 10, with ESPN noting his potential to connect play alongside target man Evidence Makgopa.
- Pirates top the Betway Premiership and hold a two-point lead over Mamelodi Sundowns, with league action set to resume on 24 January against Sekhukhune United.
- His arrival has intensified talk that Tshegofatso Mabasa could move on, while youngster Relebohile Mofokeng has indicated he would consider opportunities abroad.