Mamelodi Sundowns confirm signing of former Orlando Pirates defender Deano van Rooyen

Mamelodi Sundowns have confirmed the signing of former Orlando Pirates full-back Deano van Rooyen on a multi-year contract.

The move comes just days after Van Rooyen became a free agent following the mutual termination of his agreement with Orlando Pirates last week. Sundowns have moved quickly to secure his services as they look to strengthen their options at right-back for the current season.

“Mamelodi Sundowns are delighted to announce the signing of Deano van Rooyen, who joins us on a multi-year deal,” the club tweeted.

Van Rooyen’s arrival gives the Brazilians another experienced option in a position where they have been affected by injury. Khuliso Mudau was ruled out for the rest of the season last month after suffering a season-ending injury, leaving Sundowns needing additional cover on the right side of defence.

The club have now filled that gap with a player described as a Betway Premiership winner. Van Rooyen will compete for the right-back position with Zuko Mdenyelwa and Thapelo Morena.

His signing also adds a fresh dimension to the rivalry between Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, with the defender moving directly from one of the country’s leading clubs to another after his departure from Pirates.

Van Rooyen’s contract with Orlando Pirates ended by mutual agreement, meaning Sundowns were able to complete the deal after he entered free agency. The length of his new agreement ensures that he is not simply a short-term replacement, with the club confirming that he has committed to a multi-year stay.

Sundowns’ decision to act follows the loss of Mudau, whose season-ending injury had reduced their options in the position. The club can now call on Van Rooyen, Mdenyelwa and Morena as their right-back choices for the season.

The new signing will therefore face competition for a regular place, while Sundowns gain further depth in an area that has required reinforcement. His arrival gives the Brazilians a recognised option following Mudau’s injury and completes a move that had become possible after Van Rooyen and Pirates agreed to end their contract.

For Van Rooyen, the transfer represents an immediate continuation of his career at a new club after leaving Orlando Pirates. For Sundowns, it provides a replacement option and adds a Betway Premiership winner to their squad.

The announcement concludes a short period of uncertainty for the full-back. After becoming available last week, he has now secured a multi-year deal with Sundowns and will compete with Mdenyelwa and Morena for the right-back role.