The Soweto giants are set for the services of an established defender to ensure they have a strong team for the new campaign.
Orlando Pirates are set to secure the services of Stellenbosch captain Deano van Rooyen in the next couple of days.
The Sea Robbers are aiming at getting consistency in the right-back position. Thabiso Lebitso was signed from Chippa United to offer a solution, but recent injuries have not made it easy for coach Jose Riveiro.
The defender pulled out of the MTN8 quarter-final game with SuperSport United, which gave Thabiso Monyane a chance to feature. Versatile Paseka Mako is also nursing injuries leaving the Spaniard with no option.
Stellenbosch agree to sell Van Rooyen
The Soweto giants initial offer for the 27-year-old was turned down because Stellies felt it was low, but that has now been sorted.
“A club-to-club agreement is now in place between Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC for skipper Deano van Rooyen,” SABC Sport confirmed.
“The Buccaneers had to submit a revised offer after their initial bid for the 27-year-old right-back was first rejected.”
Van Rooyen came in as a late sub in the Stellies 3-1 win over TS Galaxy in the MTN8 quarter-final game last weekend, and coach Steve Barker went on to explain the reason, he’s had a bit of niggle the last couple of days, so it was a little more precautionary, plus also the conditions of the pitch,” he said after the game.
“We have always said we want to keep our best players as we feel we are a team that can challenge for honours in the league and our intention is to work as hard as we can to make sure we retain our squad.”
Why go for Van Rooyen?
Van Rooyen played 35 games for Stellies last season across all competitions and managed to score a goal and provide an assist.
The right-back is expected to play a huge role in helping Pirates strengthen at the back in their bid to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the Premier Soccer League crown. He will further be expected to help Bucs have a good outing in the Caf Champions League.
His arrival will further increase the competition for the starting berth between him, Lebitso and Monyane.
