Fabrizio Romano says Leeds have now added Club Brugge wonderkid Charles De Ketelaere to their shortlist of potential replacements for Raphinha. The youngster was in sparkling form for Brugge during 2021-22.
Raphinha, 25, continues to edge closer towards the exit door – despite Leeds rejecting a bid from Arsenal for his services. Romano reports that Leeds want £65million or will keep the Brazil international at Elland Road.
Leeds have drawn up a list of replacements – with big reports emerging in the last 24 hours. Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech could come in, among others. Now, Romano says Leeds want another, in De Ketelaere.
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Prior to the 21-22 season, De Ketelaere had played 71 times for Brugge – scoring seven goals and laying on 10. But last season, he had a hand in 28 goals during his 49 games. It saw him become a Belgium international, with eight caps.
Now, Romano reports that Leeds want him. They face competition from Milan – while Newcastle are also said to have an interest in the £34million-rated talent. A player Radja Nainggolan described as “very strong”.
Leeds have added De Ketelaere to shortlist
This would be a wonderful addition for Leeds – but he would be expensive. He is about to enter the final two years of his deal at Brugge – but the Belgians are still in a powerful position in terms of selling.
It is the same scenario, really, with Raphinha and Leeds. Brugge will certainly want north of £30million for their most-prized asset. For De Ketelaere himself, joining second-placed Milan will be tempting; Champions League football.
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