Hoffenheim targets De Cat to replace Prömel, talks with Anderlecht

TSG Hoffenheim, aiming to replace departing midfielder Grischa Prömel, have secured a personal agreement with 17‑year‑old Belgian talent Nathan De Cat, whose 1.92 m frame and 46‑match experience for Anderlecht last season make him a prime candidate for the Bundesliga side’s midfield rebuild.

Sky Germany reported that De Cat has already reached a personal agreement with Hoffenheim, a claim later confirmed by the club. The German side intends to bring the midfielder to the Bundesliga this summer.

Hoffenheim’s search for a Prömel replacement has placed De Cat and Japanese midfielder Kodai Sano at the top of their shortlist. Both players are said to have reached oral agreements on contracts extending to the summer of 2031.

Negotiations with the player's current club, Anderlecht, have already begun, running in parallel with talks involving NEC Nijmegen. Hoffenheim will make a final decision only after determining which transfer is financially viable.

German observers rate De Cat as one of the world’s top talents in his position, according to Sky’s description. His stature of 1.92 m and technical profile have attracted considerable attention.

Last season, De Cat featured in 46 official matches for Anderlecht, establishing himself as an indispensable midfield piece. His contributions helped the Belgian club maintain a strong midfield core despite his youth.

Anderlecht’s contract with De Cat runs until the summer of 2027, and no extension has been agreed. The club therefore sees the current window as its last opportunity to secure a substantial fee, targeting around €30 million, though the figure is considered ambitious given the contract length.

The next steps involve detailed financial negotiations between Hoffenheim, Anderlecht and possibly NEC Nijmegen. Until a definitive agreement is reached, the transfer remains uncertain.