The January transfer window has begun to shape the narrative of the second half of the South African season, with Orlando Pirates striking early, Mamelodi Sundowns plotting a major move and Cape Town City reinforcing their bid to return to the top flight.
Pirates have wasted little time in adjusting their squad, confirming both an arrival and a departure within the opening days of the window.
On Monday, the Buccaneers officially announced the signing of New Zealand international attacking midfielder Andre de Jong from Stellenbosch FC, ending months of speculation around the forward’s future.
“A new Buccaneer joins the ship! We are pleased to announce the signing of Andre de Jong. Welcome Andre!” the club confirmed on social media.
The 29-year-old becomes Pirates’ first acquisition of the year as they look to bolster their attacking options for a demanding run-in across domestic and continental competitions.
De Jong has been one of the Betway Premiership’s most consistent performers in recent seasons, earning a reputation as a physical, hard-running midfielder with a reliable goal return.
For Pirates, De Jong offers experience, presence in the box and tactical flexibility.
At the same time, Pirates confirmed that midfielder Sinoxolo Kwayiba has completed a permanent return to Chippa United.
The club thanked the player for his service, bringing an end to his stay in Soweto as he heads back to the side where he previously enjoyed regular football.
The move reflects Pirates’ efforts to streamline their squad while creating space for new additions as they continue to compete on multiple fronts.
Next on the list are champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who are reportedly closing in on a blockbuster move for Colombian striker Brayan León.
The Chloorkop giants are understood to be prepared to pay in the region of R58 million to secure the 25-year-old from Independiente Medellín, as coach Miguel Cardoso looks to further sharpen his attacking arsenal.
According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, the deal includes a sell-on clause and follows Medellín’s recent sale of fullback Juan Arizala. León enjoyed a productive 2025 campaign, scoring 13 league goals and supplying nine assists in 40 appearances as his club finished eighth.
His arrival would significantly increase competition up front, with potential implications for Peter Shalulile, Iqraam Rayners, Arthur Sales and Lebo Mothiba.
Meanwhile, in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, Cape Town City have moved decisively to arrest a stuttering start to life in the second tier.
The Citizens announced the signings of experienced midfielder Miguel Timm and striker Dženan Zajmović as they intensify their push for automatic promotion.
City currently sit fourth on the table with 22 points from 14 matches, five points behind leaders Milford FC. Zajmović, who previously scored 11 goals for TS Galaxy before a brief spell in Iran, has spoken of his excitement at joining a club with clear ambition and direction.
As the window gathers pace, the early moves by Pirates, Sundowns and City underline how decisive recruitment could yet define the months ahead.
