Transfer Details
- Player: Charles De Ketelaere
- Current Club: Atalanta
- Potential Destinations: Manchester City, Manchester United
- Contract Situation: On loan at Atalanta from AC Milan, with a purchase option
- Possible Move: Permanent transfer
- Focus Keyword: Charles De Ketelaere transfer Manchester United Atalanta
Transfer Breakdown
Manchester United have joined Manchester City in the race for Charles De Ketelaere, the 23-year-old Belgian midfielder who has been excelling at Atalanta on loan from AC Milan.
With United in need of a creative playmaker, they see De Ketelaere as an ideal option. However, Atalanta hold a purchase option, meaning they could sign him permanently before selling him on for a profit.
Why This Move?
For Manchester United, De Ketelaere would bring technical ability, vision, and versatility, adding much-needed creativity to the squad.
For Manchester City, he is a long-term replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, fitting Guardiola’s possession-based system.
Expert Opinion
Belgian football journalist Kristof Terreur commented on De Ketelaere’s development:
🗣️ “Charles De Ketelaere has bounced back at Atalanta after struggling at Milan. He has the vision and technical quality to succeed in the Premier League.”
Former United midfielder Paul Scholes also weighed in:
🗣️ “De Ketelaere could be the perfect creative spark United need. But will they move fast enough?”
Fan Reactions
- @ManUtdNews: “We need a new playmaker! If De Ketelaere is available, we should go for him.”
- @CityXtra: “Would love to see De Ketelaere at City, but will Atalanta sell?”
- @SerieAWatch: “Atalanta have a smart transfer strategy. Expect them to activate the buy option before any sale.”
Player Stats
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | AC Milan | 40 | 2 | 5 |
| 2023-24 | Atalanta | 34 | 9 | 8 |
| 2024-25 | Atalanta | 10 | 3 | 2 |
Competing Midfielders at Manchester United & City
If De Ketelaere moves to Manchester United, he will compete with:
| Player | Position | 2024-25 Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bruno Fernandes | Attacking Midfield | 11 | 4 | 3 |
| Mason Mount | Central Midfield | 9 | 1 | 1 |
| Kobbie Mainoo | Central Midfield | 12 | 1 | 2 |
If De Ketelaere joins Manchester City, he will compete with:
| Player | Position | 2024-25 Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kevin De Bruyne | Attacking Midfield | 9 | 3 | 5 |
| Phil Foden | Attacking Midfield | 12 | 5 | 3 |
| Bernardo Silva | Central Midfield | 10 | 3 | 4 |
What’s Next for Charles De Ketelaere?
With Atalanta holding a purchase option, any club wanting De Ketelaere will need to negotiate with Atalanta rather than AC Milan. Will Manchester United or Manchester City make a move?
Related Transfer Stories
- Bernardo Silva’s potential departure from Manchester City
- Florian Wirtz’s possible transfer to Manchester City
Have Your Say!
Would Charles De Ketelaere be a good signing for Manchester United or Manchester City? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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