Mamelodi Sundowns have announced the signing of former Orlando Pirates right-back Deano Van Rooyen to beef up their defence for the 2026/27 season.
Van Rooyen has signed with the African champions on a free transfer, just weeks after mutually terminating his contract with the Buccaneers.
The highly-rated defender left Pirates following his struggles for regular game time since the arrival of head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou at the start of last season.
Van Rooyen spent two seasons with Pirates, having joined from Stellenbosch FC in August 2024 as one of the high-profile signings.
In his first season at Pirates, Van Rooyen played regularly under the then-head coach Jose Riveiro. In the previous campaign, the right wing back found himself on the fringes after Bafana Bafana international Kamogelo Sebelebele established himself as the first choice right-back under coach Ouaddou.
DEANO VAN ROOYEN COMPLETES SURPRISE MOVE TO RIVALS MAMELODI SUNDOWNS AFTER ORLANDO PIRATES EXIT
The 29-year-old made 51 appearances across all competitions for the Sea Robbers, contributing a goal and an assist while helping the defence secure numerous clean sheets along the way.
Van Rooyen also won major trophies with the Ghosts, which include the Betway Premiership title last season.
After the end of his spell with the Soweto giants, Van Rooyen has begun a new chapter with Sundowns to play under coach Miguel Cardoso.
The talented defender has signed with Masandawana, who are eager to find a replacement for Khuliso Mudau, who is sidelined with a long-term Achilles tendon injury.
Mamelodi Sundowns announced the arrival of Deano Van Rooyen on Sunday afternoon in a bid to solve their defensive issues as they look to compete for the Betway Premiership, CAF Champions League and all domestic trophies on offer.
“Deano Van Rooyen joins the Yellow Family. Deano Van Rooyen is ready to begin his journey with Bafana Ba Style! Let’s give our newest arrival a proper Yellow Nation welcome,” said Sundowns in a brief statement on their social media platforms.
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