Charles De Ketelaere’s time in Italy started with difficulty, and AC Milan opted to move him on last summer, and this summer, he could leave the club permanently. With this in mind, Vincent Mannaert, the former Club Brugges director, spoke about the deal that saw him move to the Rossoneri and his time at Atalanta.
There can be no denying that the De Ketelaere who featured for Milan last season and the Belgian playing for Atalanta this term are vastly different players. Maybe the difference is confidence, maybe it is just acclimatisation.
However, there is now a talent that looks settled in Italy, and La Dea could ensure his future is in black and blue instead of returning to red and black once his loan concludes by paying the €23 million buy clause in his contract.
It is believed that the clubs will meet shortly to discuss his future, and the Bergamese club are looking to reduce the figure they will have to pay, but Milan are expected to reject this.
With his future a hot topic currently, Mannaert spoke to Gianluca Di Marzio about his move to Milan, and his words have been relayed by Radio Rossonera.
“Bruges had already reached an agreement with Leeds, who offered a considerable sum, but Charles was determined to go only to AC Milan. Initially, the Rossoneri offered 22 million euros, and the directors would have preferred a transfer to the Premier League.
“It was not easy [negotiating with Paolo Maldini and Frederic Massara], but they showed great professionalism. Maldini always made his point of view clear to me, but in the end, Charles’ desire to move to AC Milan was decisive.”
De Ketelaere’s performances at Atalanta…
“Maldini had said that Charles would need time, and in hindsight, he was right. I think Bergamo is the right place for him, and it would be good if he stayed for another season: we are still in contact, and I know that Atalanta wants to redeem him.”