Leeds United supporters will be hoping for a fruitful January transfer window after the disappointment of missing out on Cody Gakpo and Charles De Ketelaere during the summer. A move for Gakpo would be quite the coup for the Whites but that ship has sailed given the significant rise in his stock after a stellar World Cup with the Netherlands.
The Whites have also been tentatively linked with a loan move for Belgian forward De Ketelaere, despite the youngster only moving to AC Milan in the summer. It's another deal that you can file in the highly unlikely drawer. However, while the rumours continue we thought we'd give supporters a little more meat on the bone of who the payer is.
The 21-year-old has struggled to make the impact expected after his move from Club Brugge in the summer and is yet to find the back of the net in Serie A. De Ketelaere has made 13 appearances for Milan but only five of those have been starts. Leeds Live spoke with The Belgian Football Podcast for an insight into how the Belgian has fared after his move to AC Milan in the summer.
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What sort of player is Charles De Ketelaere?
The Belgian Football Podcast: "He's intelligent and highly flexible. De Ketelaere can play on either wing - predominantly right wing or in the hole. He likes to play as a striker, but this is not his best position.
"The Belgian is decent aerially as well, his flexibility is one of his most desirable qualities. He's a good link up player and has been developing quickly and impressing. He was ready for next step."
He was linked with Leeds United last summer but chose AC Milan, how has he fared in Italy? Do you think he might regret that move to Italy?
TBFP: "It's been underwhelming so far in Italy but he's still adjusting to new culture and system. De Ketelaere has only had five starts in 13 appearances. It's early days yet and next season is going to be important.
"Italy was probably the right choice. Milan made it clear they wanted him more than anybody else.
"They had been courting him for quite some time prior to the move. We're not sure Leeds high intensity pressing game would suit him. He is at his best on the right wing in our view."
How is he viewed in terms of the national team?
TBFP: "He is yet to feature with any regularity for The Red Devils but that is expected to change with Martinez's departure. Where he might fit under a new coach is up for grabs now.
"There may well be a change of system but his flexibility can help him in that regard."
Do you think he could play in the Premier League at some point in the future?
TBFP: "He has the ability and quality to play in the English Premier League but that depends on the system and position as to which teams he may suit."
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