Charles De Ketelaere, the 25-year-old Atalanta (contract running until 2028) and Belgium forward, has been named as a potential target for Paris Saint-Germain for the 2026 summer transfer window. In an interview with Dernière Heure, the Belgian international confirmed that he had been in discussions with PSG.
De Ketelaere: “I know how important it is to be a starter”
“There were interested teams, but when you look at transfer fees in the current market, leaving isn’t always easy. I know Atalanta was asking for a high price—I think it was around that figure (€50m). But you have to find a team willing to pay that. In the Premier League, several teams could do it, but it didn’t happen.
I spoke with PSG, but they ultimately chose Ferran Torres. I’m happy at Atalanta. I learned how important it is to be a starter during my time at AC Milan. I’d like to fight for trophies one day; I have that ambition, but I’m 25, so I still have time.”
De Ketelaere is clear: a move was possible during the summer transfer window. There was interest and there were discussions, notably with PSG—an intriguing prospect, certainly. However, the Belgian had no intention of forcing a move, especially since there was no significant progress between the clubs. The asking price was high, so Paris explored other options.
The Belgian knows how to avoid regrets; he has a great spot at Atalanta and exciting challenges ahead. There is no need to rush—his career is still long. That’s how it goes every summer: there are various discussions, but not everything comes to fruition. That is precisely why one must always wait before drawing firm conclusions.
