Orlando Pirates have strengthened their squad with the signing of versatile defender Deano van Rooyen from Stellenbosch FC.
The 27-year-old has penned a three-year contract with the Buccaneers, marking a significant coup for the Soweto giants.
Pirates have included a clause in Van Rooyen’s contract that allows the club to extend the defender’s stay for an additional two years.
The highly-rated defender joins Pirates after being a part of the Stellenbosch side since 2016 while they were participating in the National First Division. Van Rooyen struggled to break into the Stellies’ side in his first two seasons. But he became one of the key players for the club in the season of their promotion to the SA elite league in 2018/19.
He went on to make a club-record 161 appearances across all competitions with five goals. He was a co-captain when Stellenbosch lifted the Carling Knockout in 2023.
DEANO VAN ROOYEN LEAVES STELLENBOSCH AFTER EIGHT YEARS AT THE CLUB
“While we are sad to see him leave, we are immensely grateful for his contributions and proud of all he has achieved and wish him nothing but success in his future endeavours,” he added.
ORLANDO PIRATES CONFIRM THE SIGNING OF VERSATILE DEFENDER
“Orlando Pirates Football Club Is pleased to announce the signing of Deano van Rooyen from Stellenbosch FC. The 27-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the Buccaneers, which includes an additional two-year option,” the club said.
“Die Hond, as he is affectionately known, a name that underpins his never-say-die spirit, has served his former club with flying colours – registering over 150 appearances in all competitions.”
