An update has emerged on Newcastle United and their interest in signing Charles De Ketelaere in the January transfer window...
What's the talk?
According to Calcio Mercato, the Magpies are preparing an offer of €30m (£26m) to sign the Belgian forward just a few months after he signed for AC Milan in the summer.
The winger joined the Italian giants from Club Brugge during the summer window but has struggled to find his best form in the Serie A this season, leading to Newcastle eyeing up a potential swoop in January.
It is stated, however, that Milan are not willing to entertain a sale at this point and are committed to helping him fulfil his potential at the San Siro.
Dan Ashworth's magic touch
Newcastle's sporting director must now work his magic to strike a deal for the 21-year-old as he has the potential to be a sublime signing for the Magpies.
The former Brighton chief has already shown that he has the negotiating skills to pull off a masterclass in the market, as he convinced Sven Botman to join the club in the summer despite the defender reportedly wanting to sign for, ironically, Milan.
He is now being tasked with the challenge of changing the Italian club's mind on De Ketelaere. Ashworth must work his magic and tempt them into cashing in on the forward, just one window after signing him, as Eddie Howe could benefit from having another talented player to work with in the Premier League.
In July of this year, talent scout Jacek Kulig described him as "prolific" and an "offensive allrounder" after the gem had caught the eye whilst playing in Belgium.
De Ketelaere racked up 14 goals and nine assists, whilst creating 16 'big chances' for his teammates, in 39 Pro League matches last season, whilst he also created 1.8 chances per game across six Champions League outings.
The 21-year-old has struggled to reach the same goalscoring heights in the Serie A for Milan this season as he has failed to score in his first 11 league matches, although he has created four 'big chances' and set up one goal.
His form for the Italian giants is not outstanding but he is still a young player learning his way in the game and Newcastle must take a punt to see if he can recapture the performances he delivered at Brugge.
If he can replicate the outstanding goal contributions he managed in Belgium then he could be a fantastic signing for Newcastle for many years to come, which is why Ashworth must put his negotiating hat on to convince Milan to part ways with the talented youngster.