Transfer news
De Ketelaere reveals talks were held with PSG over summer transfer
Charles De Ketelaere says he came close to joining Paris Saint-Germain from Atalanta this summer, before the French champions opted for Ferran Torres.
PSG explored a move for the Belgium international as they reshaped their attack following the departures of Goncalo Ramos, Bradley Barcola, Ibrahim Mbaye, Randal Kolo Muani and Kang-in Lee.
Atalanta valued De Ketelaere at €50m, a figure PSG were unwilling to meet. They instead signed Ferran from Barcelona for a reported €48.5m.
Asked about Atalanta’s asking price, De Ketelaere confirmed: “Yes, I think it was around that amount. But, we have to find a team that is willing to spend that amount.”
“Several teams could do it in the Premier League, but it didn’t happen. I spoke to PSG, but in the end they chose Ferran Torres.
“I’m happy at Atalanta, I know how important it is to play regularly as a starter following my time with Milan.
“I’d like to fight for titles one day. I have that ambition, but I’m only 25 and still have time.”
The numbers behind Atalanta’s valuation
De Ketelaere joined Atalanta permanently from AC Milan two years ago after a productive loan spell in 2023-24, when he scored 14 goals in 50 appearances across all competitions.
Since his initial loan spell, only Federico Dimarco (283) and Nicolo Barella (251) have created more chances among Serie A players than De Ketelaere’s 244.
His 63 goal contributions over that period are bettered only by Lautaro Martinez (90), Marcus Thuram (75) and Christian Pulisic (68).
He has yet to score in six appearances across all competitions in 2026-27, however, with Maurizio Sarri’s Atalanta sitting 11th in Serie A heading into the international break.
An immediate impact for Belgium
De Ketelaere provided an assist in Belgium’s 2-0 Nations League win over Italy on Friday, setting up Dodi Lukebakio’s 69th-minute winner at the Stadio Olimpico.
In Mark van Bommel’s first game in charge of the Red Devils, only Kevin De Bruyne (five) created more chances than De Ketelaere (four). The Atalanta midfielder also recorded team-high totals for successful dribbles (two), duels won (eight) and aerial duels won (two).
Belgium’s Nations League campaign continues against France on Monday, followed by a clash with Turkiye before another meeting with Zinedine Zidane’s side on October 5.
