Leeds United target Charles De Ketelaere left out of Club Brugge squad amid negotiations
Leeds United target Charles De Ketelaere was left out of the Club Brugge squad as they played Copenhagen in a pre-season friendly, according to Libero.
The Italian newspaper reported on Sunday (10 July, page 30) that De Ketelaere, 21, was nowhere to be seen as Brugge lost 4-2 against the Danes on 9 July.
It is understood that while Leeds are pursuing the Belgium forward, they are “resigned” to the fact that he’ll be joining AC Milan instead of them once they meet Brugge’s £29.6million demands.
Libero have previously reported (7 July, page 30) that Leeds have tabled a “super” bid that’s worth £29.8million, plus £4.3million in add-ons, for the Brugge striker.
Now, they claim that Milan are the most likely destination for De Ketelaere and that was he was kept out of that friendly match against Copenhagen due to the negotiations that are ongoing about his future.
Interesting
Leeds do not seem to be winning this race but it sure seems as though De Ketelaere will be leaving Club Brugge this summer.
There’s no way that Brugge can turn down the money that Leeds are reportedly offering for the Belgian, which is a club record for the Elland Road club.
However, you can see why the Brugge star would rather join AC Milan than Leeds.
Milan have just won Serie A and are top seeds in the Champions League group stages for next season.
They have a massive reputation across the world, have some seriously exciting players in their squad and will compete again for major honours next season.
Leeds have lost Marcelo Bielsa and Kalvin Phillips this year and look as though they’re set to lose Raphinha too while they almost lost their Premier League status last season.
Leeds could be in a relegation battle next season while Milan could be competing for the Serie A title and playing in the Champions League.
For someone who isn’t a diehard Leeds fan, it’s obvious which club you’d rather play for.
In other Leeds United news, this £40,000-a-week Leeds player is being hidden from pre-season footage as the club gets ready to get rid of him.