Everton have made an enquiry into the availability of Charles De Ketelaere.
According to Pianeta Milan, AC Milan are open to parting ways with the forward this summer and would welcome a loan move or a permanent departure.
De Ketelaere bagged 14 goals and nine assists during the 2021-22 season for Club Brugge before he earned himself a €35 million move to AC Milan.
The Belgian was heavily linked with a move to Leeds United but instead opted to move to Serie A, though his decision hasn’t paid off.
De Ketelaere made 40 appearances in all competitions for Milan last season and is still yet to score his first goal for the club.
With the 22-year-old now set to leave, Everton have joined the likes of Atalanta, Crystal Palace and West Ham in targeting a move for De Ketelaere.
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With Euro 2024 coming up next summer, De Ketelaere’s representatives are determined to offer him a fresh start with regular football.
It is unclear whether Everton’s rivals will look to snap him up permanently, but the Toffees’ current financial situation means they will be eager to bring him in on loan.
A loan deal for Charles De Ketelaere could be risk free for Everton
Charles De Ketelaere is clearly a very talented young player and was even praised by Rio Ferdinand following Chelsea’s 3-0 win over AC Milan in October.
Despite defeat, Ferdinand told BT Sport: “De Ketelaere, he’s a very talented young man. I was surprised no English club came in for him.”
Leeds United recognised potential in the attacking midfielder but failed to land him, while Everton will look to succeed in what they could not.
Sean Dyche’s side could certainly offer him regular first team football as he looks to reignite his career, while they aren’t committed to meeting the €30m (£25m) fee that AC Milan would demand for his permanent signing.
But for now, their only problem is convincing the Belgium international that Goodison Park is the place for him to find his feet once again.