Fabrizio Romano has taken to Twitter to inform football fans that AC Milan star Charles De Ketelaere – after strong links with Leeds United last summer – is set to join Atalanta initially on loan. He could team up with Willy Gnonto.
Belgium star De Ketelaere, 22, joined Milan 12 months ago. It was a two-way battle between Leeds and Milan, but the Italians ran out winners – spending £30m. Andrea Radrizzani told The Athletic he regretted not striking a deal.
But he failed at Milan, in his first year. Playing 40 times, he failed to score a single goal – laying on just one assist. With Atalanta selling Rasmus Hojlund to Manchester United for £72m, De Ketelaere is set to replace the striker.
Romano says Milan and Atalanta are in agreement and while De Ketelaere is yet to agree, he will surely be tempted by a move to the Serie A side – who are in the Europa League. A year after Leeds tried to sign him, he is on his way.
Romano: De Ketelaere set to join Atalanta after strong Leeds United links
It is a brilliant move for the Belgian star. Given his woeful form for Milan during 22-23, he might have had to go back to Belgium – or try something new. But joining Atalanta, who finished fifth in Serie A last season, is a brilliant move.
He could be joined by Willy Gnonto. TeamTalk report that Gnonto has told his agents that he does not want a move to Everton. But, a move back to Italy is on the cards – with Juventus and Atalanta both interested in signing Gnonto.
So, it could be that Gnonto and De Ketelaere team up in attack. Last summer, it might have been that both players combined at Elland Road – now, the duo could play together at Atalanta. Gnonto remains a Leeds player, for now.
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