SA talent Tristan Van Gilst seals dream move to Eredivisie
Promising South African attacker Tristan Van Gilst has completed a dream move from Dutch second-tier side De Graafschap to Eredivisie club Heracles Almelo.
The 22-year-old’s transfer marks a major step up in his burgeoning career and could pave the way for potential future Bafana Bafana representation.
Van Gilst had an impressive 2024/2025 season with De Graafschap in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie, displaying his attacking prowess. Playing as both a winger and attacking midfielder, he scored 12 goals and provided three assists in 33 matches.
His performances caught the eye of Heracles Almelo, who have secured his services on a free transfer. Van Gilst signed a contract until mid-2028, a transfer that could prove vital in his career.
Known for its technical quality and emphasis on nurturing young talent, the Dutch top-flight offers Van Gilst an excellent platform to further refine his abilities against stronger opposition.
Of particular interest is Van Gilst’s background—his mother, Natalie Van Gilst, is South African. He is currently in the process of acquiring South African citizenship, with his dual Dutch and South African heritage fueling expectations that he could represent Bafana Bafana at some point. His consistent goal-scoring and creative midfield contributions make him an exciting prospect for Hugo Broos’s national team.
WHO IS TRISTAN VAN GILST?
Born in Amsterdam, Van Gilst began his career at FC Aalsmeer before joining AFC’s youth academy. In 2021, he signed with PEC Zwolle’s under-21 team.
He made his professional debut for PEC’s first team on 30 April 2022, replacing Chardi Landu in the 69th minute of a 3–0 away loss to Ajax in Eredivisie. He signed his first professional contract at season’s end—a one-year deal with an option for an additional year.
Although this remains his only first-team appearance for PEC, he scored nine goals and assisted five in 23 appearances for the under-21 squad.
On 22 January 2024, Van Gilst scored his first professional goals after making a switch to De Graafschap. He scored a brace in PEC Zwolle’s 4–2 victory over Jong PSV. All eyes will be on the talented attacker as he embarks on his exciting new chapter in the Eredivisie.
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