Leeds are reportedly battling Milan in the race to sign Club Brugge wonderkid Charles De Ketelaere this summer – and now, they could be about to receive a boost in their pursuit from an unlikely source; Andy Carroll.
De Ketelaere, 21, is attracting plenty of interest from all over Europe this summer after a remarkable campaign in which he scored 18 goals. He helped Brugge win his third league title, and became a Belgium international.
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Fabrizio Romano says Leeds want De Ketelaere as a possible replacement for Raphinha. However, reports on Friday morning claim that Leeds will have to pay a ‘jackpot’ fee of more than £26million to tempt Brugge into a sale.
However, Leeds may find a boost from a surprise source in the coming days. Indeed, Brugge are in talks to sign England international Carroll on a free transfer his short-term spell at West Brom came to an end.
Leeds could receive De Ketelaere boost from Carroll
The Mail report that Brugge and Carroll are in talks to strike a surprise move for the 33-year-old. Whether a deal goes through remains to be seen – it would be Carroll’s first spell outside of English football.
Of course, Carroll is a target man. A striker renowned for his aerial ability. De Ketelaere is different in that while naturally a striker, he can play out wide or as a 10. But his lofty frame has led to goals and assists.
His ability in the air helps bring others into the game, or getting onto the end of crosses. So, there is a similarity between Carroll and De Ketelaere. If Brugge do sign Carroll, it is a sign they are preparing to replace the Belgian.
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