FC Bayern, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are not only regularly involved in intense duels on the pitch, but the three Bundesliga heavyweights are also crossing paths more and more frequently on the transfer market. According to recent media reports, all three top clubs are courting the same promising midfield talent: Nathan de Cat from RSC Anderlecht
The name Nathan de Cat has long been established on the international scouting scene. The 17-year-old Belgian has quickly become a permanent fixture at RSC Anderlecht and has made a name for himself with consistently strong performances. FC Bayern have been linked with the central midfielder for some time, but now serious competition from the Bundesliga is looming
As reported by Sky, Munich are preparing for a three-way transfer battle. In addition to the German record champions, RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund have also expressed concrete interest in the Belgian U19 international. de Cat, who comes from the club’s own youth ranks, has been a permanent member of the professional squad at RSC Anderlecht since this season and has made the leap without any significant start-up time. In 28 competitive matches to date, the 1.92-metre midfielder has already scored two goals
Bayern with a clear need in the center
At Säbener Straße, de Cat is being discussed primarily in the context of a possible realignment in midfield. The departure of Leon Goretzka next summer is considered likely, as his contract is due to expire and an extension is not yet foreseeable. Bayern are therefore intensively exploring the market for young, developable players with prospects for the first team
According to Sky, FC Bayern are already in contact with the player and have signalled their interest in principle. One decisive factor could be Vincent Kompany. Munich’s Belgian head coach knows de Cat very well from his home country and enjoys an excellent reputation among the country’s youngsters. Bayern want to use this argument to their advantage in their bid for the talent
Dortmund and Leipzig have their own arguments
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However, the competition is not sleeping either. Borussia Dortmund have also positioned themselves. De Cat has good contacts with the family of BVB’s youngster Julien Duranville, which could well play into the Black & Yellows‘ hands in the poker game. RB Leipzig, on the other hand, traditionally advertise clear sporting prospects and the prospect of early playing time at the highest level
According to Sky, Anderlecht are asking around 25 million euros for a transfer. The midfielder’s market value is currently estimated at around 17 million euros. One thing is clear: Nathan de Cat will not come cheap for any of the interested parties. However, given his age, his physicality and his already remarkable maturity, the Belgian is seen as an investment with great potential for the future.