VfB Stuttgart have opened talks over a potential summer move for Anderlecht midfielder Nathan De Cat, according to a report from Sky Germany. The 17-year-old Belgian youth international is being considered as a possible replacement for current Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller, whose future at the Bundesliga club remains uncertain. The report suggests a fee of at least €25 million, plus potential add-ons, would be required to secure De Cat's signature.
Stuttgart's interest in De Cat comes amid ongoing speculation surrounding Angelo Stiller. The club is reportedly demanding a fee in the region of €50 million for the 23-year-old German midfielder, who has been a key component in their successful campaign. Should Stiller depart, Stuttgart's sporting leadership, led by Fabian Wohlgemuth, is proactively identifying potential successors to maintain the team's competitive level.
Nathan De Cat, despite his youth, has already become a regular fixture in the Anderlecht first team this season, making over 20 appearances in the Belgian Pro League. His performances have attracted attention from several top European clubs, with Sky Germany noting that Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig, Arsenal, and Newcastle United are also monitoring his situation. This widespread interest underscores his reputation as one of the most promising young talents in European football.
The potential move represents a significant step in De Cat's career, offering a pathway to one of Europe's top five leagues. For Stuttgart, it aligns with a recent strategy of identifying and developing young talent, a approach that has yielded considerable success in recent seasons. Securing a player of De Cat's potential would be a major coup, but the club faces stiff competition for his services.
Stuttgart are also reportedly considering other options, with Southampton's Caspar Jander named as an alternative target who would command a similar fee. The club's activity in the market is contingent on the outcome of the Stiller situation. A sale of their prized asset would provide the necessary funds to pursue a high-caliber replacement like De Cat, while also reinforcing other areas of the squad.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining both Stiller's destination and Stuttgart's ability to execute their transfer plans. Should they succeed in bringing De Cat to the Mercedes-Benz Arena, it would signal a clear intent to build upon this season's achievements with another ambitious, forward-thinking acquisition.
