AC Milan’s opening bid for Charles De Ketelaere is ‘bad news for Leeds’, according to Belgian journalist Alexandre Braeckman.

The Whites have been heavily linked with a move for the Club Brugge star, but a move to Elland Road is yet to gather any real pace despite making an approach.

AC Milan have always been name-checked as potential competition for the attacking midfielder, who was previously described as a 'complete' player by Brugge legend Gert Verheyen.

The Serie A champions have now launched an opening bid for the 21-year-old worth an initial €20m (£17.2m), as reported by Fabrizio Romano. The Belgian outfit want more, but Milan making their first move appears to be a concern for those at Elland Road.

The Latest: Braeckman reacts

Braeckman took to Twitter on Monday evening to react to Romano’s update.

He labelled a bid from Milan as a ‘major step’ and one which spells ‘bad news for Leeds’.

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The Verdict: Time for Leeds to act?

Leeds may have to act fast if they want to bring De Ketelaere to Elland Road, but you’d expect that they won’t want to be drawn into a bidding war with Milan.

The Whites may be holding back from making a bid of their own due to Raphinha’s uncertain future. The Brazilian appears to be holding out for a move to Barcelona despite Leeds agreeing on a fee with Chelsea.

Funds brought in from Raphinha’s potential sale could then be put towards De Ketelaere, but time is now against Leeds after Milan made their move.