De Ketelaere Confirms PSG Transfer Talks Before Ferran Torres Deal
Charles De Ketelaere has confirmed he discussed a summer move to Paris Saint-Germain, but the French champions ended their pursuit after signing Ferran Torres from Barcelona on a contract through June 2031.
Summer move stalled in Bergamo
The 25-year-old Belgium international was open to the possibility of joining PSG during the transfer window, only for Atalanta’s valuation to block any progress.
De Ketelaere said PSG eventually opted for Torres instead. “I spoke with PSG, but they ultimately chose Ferran Torres,” he explained.
Atalanta were understood to be seeking around €50 million for the attacking midfielder, whose existing deal runs until June 2028. De Ketelaere acknowledged that figure was discussed but said no club completed a deal.
- Atalanta’s reported asking price: close to €50 million
- De Ketelaere’s current contract: until June 2028
- PSG’s alternative signing: Ferran Torres
- Torres’ PSG agreement: until June 2031
Premier League interest did not become an offer
De Ketelaere believes several English clubs would have had the financial power to meet Atalanta’s demands, but no move developed before the window closed.
“You need to find a team willing to pay it,” he said. “In the Premier League there are several clubs that can do it, but in the end nothing materialised.”
Regular football remains De Ketelaere’s priority
The Belgian has made clear he is not pushing for an immediate exit. After his previous spell at AC Milan, he sees consistent starting opportunities as more important than forcing a transfer.
“I am happy at Atalanta,” De Ketelaere said. “I know how important it is to start after my experience at AC Milan. One day I would like to challenge for trophies. I have that ambition, but I am 25 and I still have time.”
What happens next
De Ketelaere returns to a difficult domestic situation with Atalanta sitting 11th in Serie A after taking six points from five matches. He has registered one assist so far this season and faces growing pressure to improve his final contribution in Maurizio Sarri’s team.
Atalanta host bottom club Venezia after the international break, giving De Ketelaere and his side a chance to launch their league campaign.
