Schicker: Record signing - or rather a Japanese player?

At TSG Hoffenheim, planning for the new season is in full swing.

After the Kraichgauer have already signed ÖFB national player Patrick Wimmer this summer and with Alexander Prass another Austrian international is part of the squad, the midfield could now receive further reinforcement.

For the two ÖFB legionnaires, this would also mean additional competition in the fight for starting spots.

Hoffenheim should soon have additional financial leeway in the transfer market.

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Two desired players already convinced

As "Sky" reports, Hoffenheim has already reached a verbal agreement with two desired candidates for central midfield.

Both Nathan De Cat from RSC Anderlecht and Kodai Sano from NEC Nijmegen are said to have generally agreed to a move to Kraichgau. Accordingly, a contract until 2031 would be planned for each.

Now the clubs must agree. Talks with Anderlecht and Nijmegen are running in parallel, but ultimately only one of the two midfielders is to be signed.

De Cat considered an exceptional talent

With Nathan De Cat, Hoffenheim apparently has one of Europe's most sought-after young talents in its sights.

The just 17-year-old Belgian made his breakthrough at Anderlecht last season, featuring in 46 competitive matches and contributing to eight goals.

As his contract expires in summer 2027, the 1.92-meter tall midfielder should be affordable despite his great potential. His current market value is estimated at 27 million euros.

TSG Hoffenheim's record transfer to date is Adam Hlozek, who was signed in 2024 for 18 million euros. It is quite possible that this sum could be exceeded.

Japanese international as an alternative

Should the De Cat transfer not materialize, Kodai Sano is available as an alternative. The 22-year-old impressed at NEC Nijmegen with a strong season, collecting eleven scorer points in 39 competitive matches.

His performances have also earned him call-ups to the Japanese national team.

In Germany, the family name is already well-known: His older brother Kaishu Sano is under contract with 1. FSV Mainz 05, playing alongside ÖFB national players Phillipp Mwene and Stefan Posch.