Charles De Ketelaere’s performances at the 2026 World Cup have sparked a scramble for his signature, with Atalanta establishing a €50m asking price for the Belgian international. The versatile attacker, who was the only player to score against eventual champions Spain during the tournament in North America, has attracted concrete interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and several Premier League clubs.
De Ketelaere contributed three goals and one assist across five appearances as Belgium reached the quarter-finals. His displays have reportedly convinced the Bergamo club to establish a firm valuation, having previously considered him unsellable this summer while they finalised other outgoing transfers.
World Cup audition raises profile
The 2026 tournament proved a breakthrough moment for the attacker. Finding the net against Spain in a standout performance highlighted his ability on the biggest stage, drawing attention from Europe’s elite. Prior to the World Cup, De Ketelaere had already built a solid reputation in Italy, but his international displays have accelerated exit speculation.
Contract details and club stance
De Ketelaere remains tied to Atalanta until 2028, having amassed 32 goals and 31 assists in 142 appearances across all competitions. New coach Maurizio Sarri regards the Belgian as central to his tactical vision, reportedly planning to utilise him in a number ten role behind the centre-forward within a 4-2-3-1 system.
However, the club’s transfer strategy has shifted following the collapse of Ederson’s proposed move to Manchester United. With midfielder Marco Palestra already sold to Chelsea, Atalanta may need to generate further funds, making De Ketelaere a more probable departure than alternatives such as goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi.
PSG and Bayern lead chase
Paris Saint-Germain view De Ketelaere as a viable alternative to AS Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, whose transfer to Parc des Princes remains uncompleted. The Ligue 1 side value De Ketelaere’s tactical flexibility and intelligence.
Bayern Munich have also registered interest, while unnamed Premier League clubs maintain a watching brief. Atalanta will reportedly demand the full €50m valuation to sanction any deal, with no indications yet that formal bids have been submitted.
The coming weeks will determine whether De Ketelaere remains in Bergamo to feature in Sarri’s plans or departs for one of Europe’s heavyweight divisions.