Neither Everton nor Leeds should bother making efforts to sign Belgium’s rising star Nathan de Cat this summer.
That’s according to analyst Filip Joos. Voetbalkrant cover comments from him today, dismissing Everton and Leeds as potential destinations for the 17-year-old.
De Cat is currently considered one of the brightest young talents in Belgian football. He added to that reputation with a superb solo goal in the 2-2 draw away at Club Brugge.
He was ‘once again the bright spot’ for the purple and white, putting in another top performance in a season full of them. Reports have already linked him with a big summer move.
Contract until 2027 contract
The claims are largely due to his contract situation. His current deal runs out next summer, perhaps pushing Anderlecht to a sale this summer if they can’t get him signed to a new deal.
The Belgian club are working on that but can only do so once he turns 18 in July. Until then, they remain in a precarious position. Indeed, reports in Belgium have stated Anderlecht may be forced to sell due to their financial situation.
The Premier League is already circling too. Brighton have already seen a bid rejected for the youngster. A report this week stated that they need at least €50m to get him. That followed a report two days ago stating Aston Villa are particularly keen.
Why Leeds United and Everton are considered unlikely
Joos is aware of the growing transfer rumours. And he can see a move happening, but not to Everton or Leeds.
“It won’t be Leeds United or Everton,” he said.
“What would be a good move for him and when? I don’t know. Can he only play for an hour? That’s the only thing that might be in doubt now, perhaps due to a physical ailment.
“You feel something could still happen to his body. After a year in the Premier League, he might be ten kilos heavier. I don’t think it’s necessarily a bad thing for him; that’s the bottom line.”
Physical concerns
Either way, De Cat’s contract situation certainly leaves Anderlecht in a precarious situation. It would not be surprising if Premier League clubs are already making moves because of it.
While they can’t talk to the youngster directly, overtures will have been made to his agents. Those will only increase if he continues to impress like he did this week.
Joos has raised an interesting point, though. De Cat has faced several fitness and physical development challenges this year as he’s adapted to professional football.
He has also struggled with workload related injuries in the past. That’s something Anderlecht have managed and continue to manage as he develops. Premier League suitors will have to weigh that up carefully if they are thinking of moving.