Milan are unwilling to lower Charles De Ketelaere’s transfer fee, and Atalanta can activate a clause to sign the Belgian permanently until June 14. However, if it expires, CDK will ‘virtually’ return to San Siro, reports Sky Sport Italia.
De Ketelaere impressed in his first season on loan at Atalanta and the Bergamo-based club announced in April that they’d make his move permanent in the summer.
However, several sources claim La Dea are in talks to lower the striker’s transfer fee and pay less than €22m, which was the sum agreed with Milan a year ago.
Atalanta’s clause to sign the Belgian striker permanently officially expires on May 14, so this coming Friday.
De Ketelaere transfer clause deadline nears amid possible Milan return
According to Sky Sport Italia, Atalanta not only want a little discount but are also pushing to renegotiate the payment formula partially.
Milan are unwilling to make any change to the original deal, so if Atalanta don’t use their option to buy before the deadline, CDK will return to Milan.
Even in this circumstance, Atalanta would continue to talk with the Rossoneri. De Ketelaere reached double figures for goals and assists in Bergamo under Gian Piero Gasperini and said multiple times that he wants to remain at the Gewiss Stadium.
However, if Atalanta don’t make De Ketelaere’s move permanent before June 14, the Belgian will ‘virtually’ return to Milan, waiting for further talks between the two clubs.
Insane.
They could sell him for more than twice the fee. And so could Milan if he returns.
Worst game of brinksmanship ever. All it’s doing id making the player feel you don’t value him.