Nathan De Cat joins Hoffenheim from Anderlecht
Hoffenheim have bolstered their midfield with the signing of highly rated Belgium international Nathan De Cat.
De Cat enjoyed a breakout 2025/26 campaign, contributing three goals and five assists across 46 competitive matches for Anderlecht.
The 17-year-old – who earned a maiden call-up to the Belgium national team in March 2026 – has signed a five-year contract through to 30 June 2031.
“We are incredibly pleased that an internationally sought-after player like Nathan De Cat has consciously chosen to join TSG Hoffenheim. This is an outstanding confirmation of the path we have chosen,” said sporting director Andreas Schicker.
De Cat featured across league, cup and European competitions last season, earning widespread praise for his performances and rapid development.
The 6'3" midfielder is relishing the opportunity to take the next step in his career at Hoffenheim, who have UEFA Europa League football to look forward to in 2026/27.
"Hoffenheim offers me the perfect opportunity to prove myself in a top-five European league and contribute to the club's sporting success. Furthermore, participating in the Europa League gives me the chance to gain valuable international experience. TSG Hoffenheim has already provided ample evidence of offering young players the best platform to develop into better players.”
After bringing in Cajetan Lenz, Mats Rots, Alessandro Vogt and Patrick Wimmer, De Cat becomes Hoffenheim's latest signing as Christian Ilzer's side look to build on their fifth-placed finish in 2025/26.
The Sinsheim club will begin the new campaign with a DFB Cup first-round tie against Erzgebirge Aue on 22 August, before opening their Bundesliga season away to Cologne seven days later.
