VfB Stuttgart have reportedly opened talks with Belgian club Anderlecht over a potential summer move for 17-year-old midfielder Nathan De Cat, according to Sky Germany. The Bundesliga side are assessing the teenager as a possible successor to Angelo Stiller, whose future at the club remains uncertain. The report suggests a fee of at least €25 million plus bonuses would be required to secure De Cat's signature, with several other top European clubs also monitoring the young Belgian.
Stuttgart's interest in De Cat comes amid ongoing speculation surrounding the future of key midfielder Angelo Stiller. It has been suggested that Stuttgart would demand a fee in the region of €50 million for Stiller, whose performances have been central to the club's recent success. Should Stiller depart, Stuttgart are proactively seeking a long-term replacement, with De Cat emerging as a primary target. The club is also reportedly considering Southampton's Caspar Jander, who would command a similar €25 million fee.
Nathan De Cat has emerged as one of the most promising talents in Belgian football during his breakthrough season with Anderlecht. His technical ability, vision, and maturity beyond his years have drawn significant attention from scouts across the continent. Sky Germany notes that alongside Stuttgart, clubs including Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig, Arsenal, and Newcastle United are all keeping tabs on the midfielder's development, indicating the high regard in which he is held.
For Stuttgart, securing a player of De Cat's potential would represent a significant investment in the future, aligning with their model of developing young talent. The potential €25 million outlay underscores their ambition to remain competitive at the top end of the Bundesliga while planning for key departures. For Anderlecht, a substantial fee for a 17-year-old would provide crucial funds for their own squad rebuilding, though they face a challenge in retaining their prized asset amid widespread interest.
The move would see De Cat make a significant leap to one of Germany's top clubs, following a path trodden by many young Belgians seeking to develop in the Bundesliga. His adaptation would be key, as he would be tasked with filling a potential void left by a seasoned international like Stiller. Stuttgart's proactive approach in initiating talks early suggests they are keen to move decisively in a competitive market to secure their preferred target ahead of rival suitors.
