TSG Hoffenheim have completed the signing of Belgian youth international Nathan De Cat from RSC Anderlecht. The 17-year-old joins the Bundesliga side on a long-term contract, with Hoffenheim’s sporting director Andreas Schicker describing him as “one of the greatest talents in Europe”.
De Cat is a physically imposing presence for his age, standing at 1.92 meters and weighing 85 kilograms. Scouts have noted his playing style evokes comparisons to a young Stefan Effenberg, highlighting his potential to develop into a commanding midfielder. He is described as strong in both running and tackling, possessing clean passing ability and a good shot.
Numerous top clubs across Europe reportedly expressed interest in acquiring the player, who spent eight years with Anderlecht and featured in 36 of 40 Belgian First League games last season. Clubs from England, as well as German giants Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, were all linked with a move for De Cat. He earned his first cap for the Belgian national team on March 28, 2026, in a 5-2 friendly victory over the United States, following a successful run of appearances for various Belgian youth national teams.
De Cat stated that Hoffenheim offered him “optimal opportunities” to prove himself in a top-five European league. He also expressed excitement about gaining international experience in the Europa League, which Hoffenheim qualified for last season. The player, who will turn 18 on July 19th, believes the club’s relatively low-profile media environment will be conducive to his development.
While the clubs have not officially disclosed the transfer fee, reports suggest it is around 20 million euros, including potential bonuses. This would make De Cat Hoffenheim’s new record signing, surpassing the 18 million euros paid to Bayer Leverkusen for Czech international Adam Hlozek two years ago. His market value, according to transfermarkt.de, has risen sharply from 2.5 million euros a year ago to its current valuation of 27 million euros.
“We are incredibly pleased that an internationally sought-after player like Nathan De Cat has deliberately chosen to move to TSG,” said Schicker. He reiterated his belief that De Cat is one of Europe’s top young talents, and that his decision is a “outstanding confirmation” of Hoffenheim’s recruitment strategy.
Hoffenheim have been strengthening their midfield options following the departure of Grischa Prömel to VfB Stuttgart. In addition to De Cat, they have also signed Cajetan Lenz, a promising talent from Bochum, and Luis Engelns from SC Paderborn, who has been gaining experience with Hoffenheim’s reserve team. This influx of young talent suggests Hoffenheim are building for the future in the central midfield position.
