AC Milan chief discusses Newcastle United target’s struggles amid summer transfer speculation

Newcastle United target Charles de Ketelaere has been backed to flourish at AC Milan after enduring a challenging start to his time in Italy.

There were reports in Italian outlet CalcioMercato suggested the San Siro giants would offer the Belgian star to Newcastle during the summer transfer window after being named as a ‘preferred buyer’ for the forward.

However, De Ketelaere receiving the backing of Milan coach Stefano Pioli after making a cameo appearance in his side’s 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur in the first leg of their Champions League round-of-16 tie with Tottenham Hotspur last week.

He told Sky Italia: “He needed more time than we thought to settle in and understand a new environment. He is better physically and mentally. Of course, I hoped for the goal and especially for him. I told him he would score when he came in. He works well, and the goal will come. He will find space and give us satisfaction.”

De Ketelaere was named among the Milan substitutes once again on Sunday night as they claimed a 2-0 home win against Serie A rivals Atalanta.

In the aftermath of the game, De Ketelaere received further support from within the Milan hierarchy after Director of Football Frederic Massara revealed the club would show patience for the forward to deliver on the promise he has show during the early years of his career.

“He (De Ketelaere) is a very talented player,” Massara told DAZN.

“We see him in training every day. We see his belief growing every day that he can express that talent for Milan. Compared to two or three years ago, he arrived at a Milan side that is the reigning champion of Italy, so that adds even more pressure. It takes a while for young players to flourish.”