Nathan De Cat reveals whether he is planning to leave Anderlecht in the January transfer window amid Tottenham interest.
Tottenham Hotspur want to build on their last term’s Europa League success under boss Thomas Frank, who has endured a mixed start to life in north London thus far.
After a strong start to the 2025/26 campaign, Spurs’ form since mid-October have tailed off. This has seen them drop out of the top four places and tumble into the bottom half of the table. While they got back to winning ways last weekend, Thomas Frank knows his squad is lacking quality and depth in several areas.
What they require as a priority is a striker to add goals to the side. In addition, the Lilywhites need a backup for Joao Palhinha, who has been an influential performer in the team since joining on a season-long loan from Bayern Munich in the summer.
Even if Tottenham end up signing Palhinha permanently from Bayern Munich, which appears likely given his impact and consistency, it is worth noting that the Portuguese international is already 30 and would only be a stopgap arrangement for midfield woes. Thus, signing a backup for the experienced defensive midfielder has to be considered by the club.
Anderlecht talent Nathan De Cat going nowhere in January
As per recent reports, Tottenham have been among the clubs interested in signing Anderlecht midfielder Nathan De Cat.
A product of the famed Anderlecht youth academy, Nathan De Cat earned his promotion to the first team earlier this year. He has continued his steady rise with consistent performances in Anderlecht’s senior side. The teenager has shone this season, bagging a goal and an assist in 23 appearances thus far.
The Belgian talent’s performances have caught the attention of several European clubs, including Tottenham. However, De Cat has poured cold water on all speculation surrounding his future, explaining that he has no intention of leaving Anderlecht during the January transfer window.
“I have no intention of leaving in the winter,” De Cat said in an interview with Belgian outlet Nieuwsblad.
“I’m not personally concerned with the interested clubs, nor with that contract extension. My parents are looking into that and are keeping me well away from it.
“A career plan? I’m not the type to think I have to achieve this or that within a year or so. My only concern is getting better every day, always raising the bar.
“My role models are Declan Rice of Arsenal and Rodri of Man City. To reach that level, I have to work hard. Again: the only thing that matters is the next match.”
Blow for Tottenham
De Cat’s decision to continue with Anderlecht and unwillingness to look out for pastures new in January is a major setback for Tottenham. The Belgian outfit have always been planning to keep hold of their academy graduate and extend his stay beyond 2027. For now, they’d be happy to know the youngster is not pushing for a move away, but it is only a matter of time before De Cat departs for a big European club.
Keeping the latest development in mind, Tottenham must continue monitoring the player’s progress. As a January move has been ruled out, Spurs must create a strong plan to sign De Cat in the summer.
