TSG Hoffenheim are closing in on the signing of highly-rated 17-year-old midfielder Nathan De Cat from RSC Anderlecht. The Bundesliga club are expected to pay in excess of €20 million for the teenager, with bonus clauses potentially increasing the final fee further.
According to reports from Belgian transfer insider Sacha Tavolieri, Hoffenheim are close to reaching a formal agreement with Anderlecht. De Cat has already given his approval to the proposed move, removing a significant obstacle from the negotiations.
German giants miss out
The Sinsheim-based outfit have seemingly beaten several wealthier rivals to secure the midfielder’s services. Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen had all previously been linked with De Cat, yet Hoffenheim’s proactive approach has positioned them at the front of the queue.
The considerable financial commitment demonstrates Hoffenheim’s urgent need to strengthen their defensive midfield department. For a club of their size, a €20 million-plus investment in a 17-year-old represents a significant statement of intent regarding their recruitment strategy.
Transfer strategy shift
The pursuit of De Cat has prompted Hoffenheim to alter their summer plans. The club had reportedly agreed personal terms with Japanese midfielder Kodai Sano of NEC Nijmegen, but have since prioritised the Anderlecht prospect instead.
Should the deal be completed as expected, De Cat would arrive in Sinsheim as one of the club’s most expensive teenage signings. The move would mark another step in Hoffenheim’s efforts to reinforce their squad with emerging European prospects.
Neither club has officially confirmed the agreement, though sources close to the negotiations suggest an announcement could follow once final details are settled between the two parties.