Hoffenheim signs 18-year-old Belgian midfielder Nathan Dekat with €70m release clause

Hoffenheim have secured one of Europe's most promising midfield talents, 18-year-old Nathan Dekat, for a transfer fee of up to €20 million (including bonuses), according to German outlet Sport Bild.

Immediate Impact in Training

Even in the first few days of training, Dekat's teammates quickly recognised his exceptional ability. The Belgian teenager impressed with his excellent physique, tackling ability, and ball control.

"You can tell at a glance that he is exceptionally talented. He is already over 1.92 meters tall and has an incredible physique," said Hoffenheim midfielder Wouter Burger (25). "Good players are always recognisable at first sight."

A Rare Talent Among Europe's Elite

Among players of the same age, only Jude Bellingham (23, now at Real Madrid) commanded a higher fee when joining a Bundesliga club—moving from Birmingham to Dortmund in 2020 for around €30 million. Like Bellingham at the time, Dekat is considered one of the most talented midfielders in Europe.

The Belgian made his national team debut in March and has already amassed over 50 professional appearances for Anderlecht at a young age.

Intense Competition for His Signature

According to Sport Bild, numerous top clubs were interested in Dekat, including:

• Borussia Dortmund
• Manchester City
• Chelsea – The London club originally wanted to sign him permanently and then loan him to partner club Strasbourg.
• Paris Saint-Germain – Also showed interest; Dekat reportedly visited Stuttgart during the winter transfer window.
• PSV Eindhoven – Recently expressed interest.

How Hoffenheim Won the Race

In June, Hoffenheim presented Dekat with a comprehensive tour of their facilities, including the training ground, stadium, offices, surrounding area, and the scenic city of Heidelberg. His family was reportedly very impressed.

The club met his key conditions: a team competing in one of Europe's top five leagues (with international ambitions), offering attractive football, and a focus on developing young players in a calm environment.

Contract and Future Plans

Although Dekat signed a contract until 2031, it is clear he will not stay that long—and this is part of his career plan.

According to Sport Bild, the five-year deal includes a release clause worth over €70 million, which will not take effect until the summer of 2027. If he moves to the Premier League after at least two years in the Bundesliga, he would become Hoffenheim's most expensive transfer in history.

That record is currently held by Bazoumana Touré (20), who joined Newcastle United for €50 million this summer.

Source: Sport Bild