Leeds United may have hit an obstacle in their pursuit of Charles de Ketelaere. Leicester City are reportedly confident of signing the Belgium international as they plan to revamp their squad.
The Whites have recently emerged as potential suitors for the youngster but their Premier League rivals have been keeping tabs on him for months. AC Milan have also been credited with an interest in De Ketelaere and have the added benefit of Champions League football to offer the 21-year-old.
Although, according to 90min, the Foxes are confident of bringing him to King Power Stadium this summer following their long-standing interest. While Brendan Rodgers’ side were unable to qualify for European football for the third consecutive season, their recent success continues to make them an attractive proposition for young players.
There is also a strong contingent of Belgian players in the East Midlands as Youri Tielemans, Timothy Castagne and Dennis Praet are all still on the books at Leicester. The latter is expected to leave this summer but after interest in Tielemans has not been forthcoming this summer, De Ketelaere would likely be linking up with two of his international team mates if he was to sign.
Throughout last season, Rodgers made a number of comments regarding something of a summer rebuild and he will hoping players of that profile will be on their way through the door. Although, he has the major issue of clearing out certain members of his squad first.
For De Ketelaere – and anyone else Leicester are hoping to sign – to be registered, there will have to be departures. As mentioned, Praet seems close to the departure lounge as Fabrizio Romano claimed that he will be leaving soon, with Fiorentina most interested. Rodgers will be hoping exits are arranged for a handful of other players otherwise he risks missing out on his primary transfer targets, most notably De Ketelaere.
Any Leeds hopes of beating Leicester to his signature are also given a slight boost due to the guarantee of regular game time, something that wouldn’t necessarily be the case at King Power Stadium. De Ketelaere would have to compete with the likes of Jamie Vardy, James Maddison and Harvey Barnes for a place in the frontline whereas his path to a starting place at Elland Road would be significantly easier.
Go here for all the latest Leeds United news.
READ NEXT
Victor Orta's plan for Leeds United's Phillips-Raphinha money may define his legacy
Key piece in Leeds United's transfer puzzle will underline the Bielsa to Marsch transition
Victor Orta could have upper-hand if Leeds United return to January target Moses Simon
Barcelona secure major cash injection as Leeds United brace for next Raphinha twist
Reading among host of Championship clubs linked with loan deal for Leeds United man
