Newcastle United are reportedly among the clubs interested in the services of Club Brugge attacker Charles De Ketelaere.
According to Sacha Tavolleri, speaking exclusively to Calciomercato.it, Charles De Ketelaere could leave Club Brugge in the summer transfer window. The young forward has attracted the interest of multiple clubs across Europe, including Italian giants Napoli and AC Milan. However, they are set to face stiff competition from Newcastle United, while Leicester City are involved in the chase as well.
A product of the club’s own academy, Club Brugge are well aware of De Ketelaere’s talents. The youngster has already established himself as a first-team regular since making his breakthrough, racking over 111 competitive appearances. His tally of 23 goals and 19 assists have helped Brugge remain one of the top teams in Belgium.
De Ketelaere’s performances have not gone unnoticed either. The 21-year-old has earned four caps for the Belgian national team and is expected to become a part of the Red Devils’ squad for the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup.
However, the playmaker is far from a regular starter in the Belgian national team, which could compel him to make a move to a bigger league in the summer. Serie A is always an option for the youngster, with Napoli and Milan keen on acquiring his services. The Rossoneri, in particular, appear to have identified him as a potential alternative for another summer target in Fabio Carvalho.
Both Milan and Napoli, though, cannot underestimate the competition from Newcastle United. The Magpies have sent out a strong signal in January, spending over €100 million. Their investments have come to fruition as well, with Eddie Howe’s men firmly out of the relegation dogfight.
Finishing in a comfortable position in the Premier League could help NUFC attract talented players in the summer. It could be particularly useful luring in players such as De Ketelaere, who may have the opportunity of making a breakthrough at St James’ Park and become the focal point of the club’s much-improved attack next season.
Among the current list of suitors, Newcastle United are also best-positioned to meet De Ketelaere’s reported valuation of around €40 million, thanks to their newfound financial muscle. But whether or not the Magpies take a gamble on the young Belgian international next summer remains to be seen.
