Official: Hoffenheim win race for highly-rated 17-year-old midfielder | OneFootball

TSG Hoffenheim have confirmed the signing of 17-year-old midfielder Nathan De Cat from RSC Anderlecht.

The Bundesliga club announced De Cat’s arrival on a long-term contract on Friday, revealing that the highly rated youngster chose their project ahead of interest from “many top European clubs”.

“It gives us tremendous pleasure that an internationally sought-after player like Nathan De Cat has made a conscious decision to join TSG. This is outstanding confirmation of the path we have chosen,” said Andreas Schicker, TSG Hoffenheim’s managing director for sport.

“Nathan is one of the biggest talents in European football in his position. We firmly believe in his potential and want to give him the trust and the necessary time to showcase his strengths at Bundesliga level and continue developing step by step.”

Explaining his decision to join Hoffenheim, De Cat said:

“TSG showed a strong and lasting interest in me from a very early stage. The conversations with the people in charge, including Andreas Schicker, Paul Pajduch and coach Chris Ilzer, completely convinced me. TSG Hoffenheim offers me the ideal opportunity to prove myself in one of Europe’s top five leagues and contribute to the club’s sporting success.

“Furthermore, playing in the Europa League gives me the chance to gain valuable experience on the international stage. TSG Hoffenheim have already provided numerous examples of giving young players the best possible platform to become better footballers.”

Despite being just 17 years old, the central midfielder made 53 appearances for Anderlecht’s senior team.