Tottenham Hotspur are among several clubs in the mix to sign Anderlecht talent Nathan De Cat
Tottenham Hotspur have endured a mixed start to the Thomas Frank era. After a positive opening to the new Premier League season, the north London club’s form has tailed off in recent weeks. Just two wins in the last five league games has seen them drop out of the top four spots, while Thomas Frank’s side also tasted their first Champions League defeat of the campaign at Paris Saint-Germain.
Spurs want to build on their last term’s Europa League success under Thomas Frank, and for that to happen, they must bolster their squad in January. Despite the inconsistency, they remain within reach of the top four and a potential return to European football.
As per recent reports, Tottenham have £100m available to spend in the upcoming winter window. The cash influx from the Lewis family in October has boosted the north Londoners’ spending power, with funds allotted only for transfers and wages. As such, it looks like they are eyeing reinforcements in the middle of the park.
Anderlecht talent Nathan De Cat wanted by Tottenham
According to Belgian outlet La Derniere Heure, Tottenham are embroiled in a three-way transfer race with Aston Villa and Brighton for the signing of talented Anderlecht defensive midfielder Nathan De Cat.
A product of the Anderlecht youth academy, Nathan De Cat made his way into their first team earlier this year. He’s been a regular for Anderlecht’s first team this season, making 20 appearances so far. The Belgian’s performances have seen Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich also take notice. He has a contract until the summer of 2027, and the Jupiler Pro League club’s plan is to retain him until then and also extend his stay.
The report adds De Cat could be available for around €35m, although none of his interested parties are willing to offer that price. The suitors feel a price of around €20-25m seems ‘more reasonable’. Anderlecht feel they could get around €35m if he stays beyond next season.
De Cat could be a long-term replacement for Joao Palhinha
Tottenham have been impressed by Joao Palhinha’s performances and are planning to sign him permanently on loan from Bayern Munich. The defensive midfielder has brought stability to the Lilywhites and made a difference with his defensive prowess, leadership and experience. He will turn 31 in July, so the Portuguese would not be deemed as a long-term solution to Spurs’ midfield.
That’s why signing De Cat would make sense. At 17, De Cat is a raw talent with high potential, and he could be groomed into a long-term replacement for Palhinha. For Spurs to win the race for his signature, they have to come up with an attractive sporting project than their rivals.
