Borussia Dortmund have opened talks with Nathan De Cat, the 17-year-old RSC Anderlecht midfielder, as the Bundesliga club accelerates its summer recruitment drive. According to Het Laatste Nieuws, the Belgian prospect has visited multiple top-tier German sides in recent weeks, with BVB, RB Leipzig, and Bayer Leverkusen all expressing serious interest. Anderlecht are holding firm on a asking price of €25 million despite De Cat's contract extending until 2027.
De Cat's emergence as a first-team regular has been swift and impressive. The versatile central midfielder made his breakthrough during Anderlecht's championship play-offs last season and has since become indispensable, accumulating 45 competitive appearances with three goals and five assists. His emotional exit from Lotto Park following a 3-1 victory over St. Truiden—walking across the pitch in flip-flops before tears suggested finality—signals his determination to move on this summer.
Competing for German Talent
Dortmund's midfield recruitment strategy hinges on securing a defensively-oriented central midfielder. Hertha BSC's Kennet Eichhorn, aged 16, emerged as their primary target, with sporting director Ole Bøg and coach Niko Kovac already holding preliminary discussions. The Berlin club's release clause of €10–12 million appeared attainable until FC Bayern Munich intensified their pursuit. Bayern sporting director Max Eberl confirmed the champions' close monitoring: "If you see Kenny Eichhorn and FC Bayern aren't watching him, then we're not doing our job." This Bayern interest may now push Dortmund toward De Cat as a credible alternative, despite his steeper valuation.
The race for young German and Belgian talent reflects Bundesliga clubs' commitment to building sustainable squads through youth development. De Cat's 45 appearances at just 17 years old demonstrate the impact young talents can achieve when given pathway opportunities. Whether Dortmund can navigate Anderlecht's €25 million demand while competing with Leipzig and Leverkusen will define their midfield shape heading into the new season.
