It has not been an ideal first season for Charles De Ketelaere, but AC Milan have already made a decision regarding his future in view of the summer window.
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Calciomercato.com recall how it was Alexis Saelemaekers’ goal in Rome that got Milan a point, but De Ketelaere ended up in the dock once again. He came on during the 72nd minute and once again made very little impact.
He lost a shoulder-to-shoulder duel which led to Roma’s opening goal through Tammy Abraham in the third added minute, and it was a performance which – like many this season – was judged by most to be too shy and one where he virtually hid on the pitch.
Stefano Pioli considers De Ketelaere to be Brahim Diaz’s first reserve and that is why the 22-year-old is almost certain to stay. The Belgian was the big signing of the post-Scudetto summer window and he cost €30m, and that is why there is still faith he will come good.
In addition to the philosophical side of things, there is also the economic question: who would buy De Ketelaere now after such a negative season for the same price that Milan paid? That is why a sale can be ruled out, because registering a capital loss is not something the management will consider.
Given that he is just 22 and there is still the belief that he will become a top-level player, selling CDK after just a year at the club is absolutely off the table.
