Milan and Leeds target De Ketelaere absent for pre-season friendly

Charles De Ketelaere

Charles De Ketelaere, who is the focus of a transfer market duel between Milan and Leeds United, did not take part in Club Brugge’s recent pre-season friendly, suggesting a move away is close.

The 21-year-old Belgian talent is a top target of both the Rossoneri and the Premier League side, with the latter raising the stakes by sending in a €30m bid. This is significantly higher than Milan’s rejected €20m opening bid, but they are planning to match their English opposition’s offer.

As highlighted by Calciomercato.com, De Ketelaere did not take part in Club Brugge’s 120-minute pre-season friendly against FC Copenhagen, suggesting that he may be close to finalising a move away. Interestingly, another Milan target Noa Lang did feature against the Danish side.

It’s unclear if the 21-year-old was unavailable due to physical concerns or if it was simply a tactical decision considering his current status on the transfer market. Rumours from Belgian suggest it’s the latter.