Report: Bayern Munich interest in Atalanta’s Charles De Ketelaere is real

Charles De Ketelaere during the match between AC Milan and Atalanta BC in Serie A at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 10, 2026. (Photo by Alessio Morgese/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Bayern Munich’s high-profile pursuit of Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon will not be an easy one — and purported backup plans have already emerged, as if to make the point that the Bavarians do have options and will not be suckered into a massive Premier League bidding war. The latest, per German outlet Kicker and as captured by @iMiaSanMia , reveals that Bayern’s interest in Atalanta Bergamo attacker and Belgium international Charles De Ketelaere is serious.

Charles De Ketelaere is an alternative to Anthony Gordon. Bayern are currently unwilling to go anywhere near what Newcastle are demanding for Gordon (around £80m). De Ketelaere would be significantly cheaper, and like the Englishman, can play almost anywhere in attack, filling several positions.

Bayern have not denied the interest in De Ketelaere when asked by @kicker [@FrankLinkesch] Could Bayern and Vincent Kompany go for the Belgian connection? De Ketelaere is 25, and has had reasonably productive seasons for Atalanta while offering versatility across the forward line. But while Gordon has been touted as a potential crown jewel of the summer transfer window, De Ketelaere would not be as high in profile — perhaps paving the way for significant investment at another position alongside him.

If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast , Spotify , Apple , or any leading podcast distributor… Join the conversation! Sign up for a user account and get: New, improved notifications system! Fewer ads Create community posts Comment on articles, community posts Rec comments, community posts