Credit: Royal Belgian Football Association/Imago

Scott Mason

Thu 12 March 2026 7:40, UK

Leeds United will have to look elsewhere than Nathan De Cat for a central midfield signing, with their chances of securing a deal shot down.

The Whites are currently looking to secure their status as a Premier League club for next season, and that will play a role in the level of talent they can sign.

De Cat is tipped to be one of the hottest prospects in football, with the midfielder a key player for Anderlecht at just 17 years old.

If Leeds were wanting to bring in the young talent, being a Premier League club would certainly strengthen their hand.

However, it now appears being in England’s top flight will make no difference to Leeds’ transfer chances after reports out of Belgium.

What has been said about Leeds and Nathan De Cat?

Leeds have had tentative links to De Cat over the last few months, but nothing concrete has ever emerged about their interest.

Now, unfortunately for Leeds, even if they want to move for De Cat, it appears they would be doing so with no hope of striking a deal.

That is according to journalist Filip Joos, who said via Belgian outlet Voetballkrant: “It won’t be Leeds United or Everton.”

With the future of Ao Tanaka looking to be away from Elland Road after he fell out of Daniel Farke’s plans, a summer signing of a defensive midfielder certainly makes sense.

If De Cat was shortlisted, the Peacocks may now have to look elsewhere throughout their plans for next season.

Who else are Leeds targeting ahead of the summer window?

Leeds are likely to prioritise the arrival of a new goalkeeper as it stands in the summer, as both Illan Meslier’s and Karl Darlow’s contracts are set to expire.

James Trafford is one name that has emerged for that position, as he seeks more game time away from Manchester City.

Additionally, Lucas Perri’s future is far from safe, with the Brazilian likely to be unhappy with his game time.

Leeds have also been recently linked to Femi Azeez, suggesting new wide men could be on the radar for Farke.

Harry Wilson is another name that has emerged for a player of that ilk.

Overall, things in the last few weeks have started to pick up in regard to signings, but no doubt as the season begins to come to a close, the shortlist of players and positions will become clearer.

Hopefully, those will be Premier League quality targets.