Chelsea and Manchester City are stepping up their pursuit of Nathan De Cat, the 17-year-old Belgian midfielder from RSC Anderlecht, ahead of the 2026/27 summer transfer window, according to reports.
According to a report by TEAMtalk, Chelsea and Manchester City are intensifying their interest in Nathan De Cat. The RSC Anderlecht midfielder sensation has already made 40 appearances this season, contributing 2 goals and 1 assist for the Belgian top-flight side. De Cat is also attracting attention from Bayern Munich, but the two Premier League clubs are accelerating their efforts to secure his signature ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Who is Nathan De Cat?
Nathan De Cat has emerged as one of Belgium’s most promising midfield talents in recent years. Born in Vilvoorde, De Cat progressed through the youth academies at KV Mechelen and Act2Prevent Voetbalschool before joining RSC Anderlecht’s youth division, where he has developed into a senior prospect.
The 17-year-old has become a key regular for Anderlecht this term, registering 40 competitive appearances with 2 goals and 1 assist. His consistent performances and raw potential have attracted the attention of several elite European clubs, with Chelsea, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich all actively monitoring his development.
Why Chelsea and Manchester City want De Cat
Chelsea face a midfield overhaul this summer. Enzo Fernandez’s future remains uncertain, with persistent speculation linking him to Real Madrid. Additionally, Romeo Lavia and Dario Essugo have struggled with injury concerns, leaving the Blues vulnerable in midfield depth. Acquiring a young talent like De Cat would provide long-term security and development potential.
For Manchester City, the calculus is equally pressing. Rodri’s long-term commitment remains clouded by reported interest from Real Madrid, while Bernardo Silva will depart as a free agent. Pep Guardiola has shown reluctance to rely solely on Nico Gonzalez as a first-choice starter. De Cat represents a potential future cornerstone for their midfield reconstruction.
Bayern Munich’s pursuit is understandable as well. Leon Goretzka will leave the Allianz Arena on a free transfer this summer, while Joshua Kimmich approaches the twilight of his career at 30 years old. The Bavarian giants need midfield renewal, positioning De Cat as a viable long-term option.
The Race intensifies
The latest report indicates that Chelsea and Manchester City have conducted detailed background evaluation of De Cat’s profile, credentials, and potential. This positions Bayern Munich in a difficult situation, as the English Premier League’s financial pull and appeal could prove decisive. The Bavarian club must accelerate its efforts in the coming weeks to remain competitive in the battle for the teenage Belgian sensation’s signature.
