Report: Newcastle may now make second swoop for ‘phenomenal’ 21-year-old dubbed De Bruyne’s heir

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Newcastle United are interested in making another move to sign AC Milan attacking midfielder Charles De Ketelaere in January, according to Calciomercato.

The Belgium international signed for the Serie A giants this summer after a £30m agreement was reached with boyhood side Club Brugge.

After the move went through, the 21-year-old’s representatives spoke with Belgian outlet Het Laaste Nieuws in an interview, during which they claimed the Magpies, alongside Arsenal, Leeds and West Ham, had also expressed an interest in securing the youngster’s signature.

However, since arriving at the San Siro, De Ketelaere has struggled to break into Stefano Pioli’s favoured XI. Despite playing in 11 out of 12 league games this season, the midfielder has featured just five times in the side’s starting squad.

Newcastle interested in second swoop for De Ketelaere

With De Ketelaere yet to fully live up to expectations in Milan, Calciomercato has reported that Newcastle remain very interested in the Belgian, and that they could decide to make a second swoop for the player in January.

The Italian outlet claim the Magpies will have a £25.8m offer ready for the winter window, which Milan technical director Paolo Maldini is expected to instantly reject, as he hopes to keep the youngster amongst the club’s ranks.

It is no wonder the Toon have been keeping an eye on De Ketelaere’s situation since missing out on his signature this summer.

During the 2021/22 season, the attacking midfielder sensationally bagged 18 goals and ten assists in 49 appearances for the Belgian club.

Able to operate anywhere along the front line or as a deep-lying midfielder, the 21-year-old certainly fits the profile Eddie Howe has been looking to add to his squad at Darsley Park.

Having made a £50m bid for James Maddison just a few months prior, the youngster possesses similar qualities to the Leicester City man – which were later secured for £20m less than their Foxes offer.

Praised Belgian journalist Sven Claes for his ‘phenomenal’ ability to handle the ball under pressure, De Ketelaere has been dubbed as the heir to Kevin De Bruyne’s throne for the Belgium national team, for whom the 21-year-old has already amassed ten appearances.

Therefore, despite his recent move to Italy, if there is any chance Newcastle could add the player to their ranks, the Tyneside club should make the move to do so in January.