Juventus Secure Atalanta's Charles De Ketelaere in Major Serie A Swoop
Juventus have completed the signing of Belgian forward Charles De Ketelaere from Atalanta on a five-year contract, the clubs confirmed on Monday. The transfer fee is reported to be in the region of €30 million, with significant performance-related add-ons potentially increasing the total package. The 23-year-old Belgian international has signed a contract with the Bianconeri until the summer of 2029, with the deal set to be officially announced following the completion of a medical.
De Ketelaere, who has spent the last two seasons on loan at Atalanta from AC Milan, enjoyed a stellar 2025/26 campaign. His 18 goals and 9 assists in all competitions were instrumental in La Dea's push for a top-four finish and their run to the UEFA Europa League semi-finals. His form for the Bergamo club, which included a match-winning brace against his new employers in March, was a key factor in Juventus's pursuit, according to sources close to the club.
For Juventus manager Thiago Motta, the acquisition addresses a critical need for a dynamic, multi-functional forward. The 22-year-old Belgian offers significant tactical flexibility, capable of operating as a false nine, a second striker, or in an advanced midfield role. His arrival is seen as a direct response to the team's need for a creative and physical presence in the final third, a profile that has been a priority for the new manager's tactical system.
The move represents a significant step in the ongoing squad rebuild at Juventus, signaling a clear intent to build a younger, more dynamic squad under the new sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli. De Ketelaere's ability to link play and contribute goals from a variety of attacking positions was a key factor in the club's decision to make him their primary attacking target this summer.
For Atalanta, the sale of a player they did not fully own represents a significant financial profit on the option they exercised to sign him permanently from AC Milan just weeks ago. The funds are expected to be reinvested into the squad as manager Gian Piero Gasperini looks to strengthen his options ahead of a return to European competition. The transfer marks a major statement of intent from Juventus as they look to close the gap to the top of Serie A.
