Leeds fixed on AC Milan talks as ‘last’ Charles De Ketelaere offer readied, with strict deadline set

Leeds United are watching AC Milan with intent as they prepare a final assault on a Charles De Ketelaere deal, according to a report.

The Club Brugge striker is the subject of a growing transfer battle between Milan and Leeds this summer. Brugge, for their part, are happy to let him leave with his suitors therefore vying for his signature.

Leeds have so far offered the most to Brugge, proposing a deal worth £31.5million (€37million) for the Belgian.

While Milan have not reached that figure, they are aware that De Ketelaere’s overriding desire is to sign for the Serie A side. As a result, they have tried to get a cheaper deal and let the player do the talking.

But that approach has so far proved unsuccessful. Nevertheless, Bel RTL journalist Alexandre Braeckman now reports that Milan are preparing a ‘last’ €32million (£27.3million) offer.

Milan will indeed not go any higher than that as they look to De Ketelaere to try and act on his transfer desire.

Gazzetta dello Sport also points to a conclusion coming in Milan’s efforts to sign the 21-year-old.

The Italian newspaper claims that the Rossoneri want a deal agreed by the end of the week – or they are walking away.

Milan, Leeds have De Ketelaere ambition

The Serie A side have already signed Divock Origi up front, the former Liverpool striker joining as a free agent.

However, the defending Italian top-flight champions want more firepower, with De Ketelaere their prime target. With only a few weeks to go until the season begins, though, they cannot wait around for long.

Milan will subsequently look elsewhere if their De Ketelaere pursuit remains unsuccessful at the end of the week.

Leeds also want to add more goals and have also made one signing up top already. Former Feyenoord star Luis Sinisterra has replaced Raphinha, but there is a desire for another goalscorer.

Patrick Bamford turns 29 in September and spent large portions of last season out with injury. It remains unclear how he will settle next term, with Leeds looking to freshen up their ranks.

Club Brugge striker could sway deal

The fact that Leeds have failed to sign De Ketelaere despite submitting a higher bid means there is another big factor at play – player power.

The striker wants to control his future and believes helping Milan try to retain their Serie A title and get out of the Champions League group stages – would be the best bet for his career.

Leeds in battle for Charles De Ketelaere

Leeds are in a battle with AC Milan for Belgian youngster Charles De Ketelaere.

Leeds, on the other hand, are focusing on stability next season amid Jesse Marsch’s first full season as manager.

Both clubs have different priorities next term and De Ketelaere wants to make sure he is making the best decision for his career.