West Ham are set to target Atalanta’s rising Belgian star Charles De Ketelaere over the coming weeks, particularly with Mo Kudus expected to leave their team. At 23-years-old Charles has quickly emerged as an impressive right wing and midfielder proving invaluable as Julen Lopetegui looks for replacement options following Mo’s potential departure.
De Ketelaere has an estimated market value of approximately PS40 Million and could feature on West Ham United’s January transfer window wish-list as soon as January 2019. At Anfield, Liverpool also expressed a keen desire to bring him in, perhaps suggesting plans not to extend Mo Salah’s stay there.
Liverpool views De Ketelaere as a quick fit for the Premier League, capable of adapting swiftly and demonstrating his prowess on the English stage. With no confirmed exits for either Kudus or Lucas Paqueta in January, West Ham’s sporting director, Tim Steidten, remains vigilant, ready to secure a replacement should other clubs act swiftly to capitalize on West Ham’s vulnerable situation.
Race Heats Up for De Ketelaere’s Signature
De Ketelaere’s signature has not only attracted West Ham and Liverpool. Arsenal, Aston Villa, Tottenham, Newcastle United and Manchester City have also expressed keen interest. Mikel Arteta may seek an edge against Premier League competitors by signing De Ketelaere.
Due to Atalanta’s strength in Serie A, there is no pressure for Atalanta to sell any of their talent; any request from De Ketelaere himself would likely prompt Atalanta to consider selling, underscoring the difficulty involved for prospective clubs in prying him away from Italy’s premier league.