West Ham could have to pay more than £22million to sign Club Brugge youngster Charles De Ketelaere, according to journalist Mo Messoudi.

The Lowdown: West Ham linked with De Ketelaere move

The Hammers are reportedly interested in signing the 20-year-old, according to a story earlier this week, with Everton also linked with a move.

De Ketelaere is one of Belgium's most exciting emerging talents, already scoring four times in the Jupiler Pro League this season, as well as registering two assists.

The Latest: Journalist makes big claim

If West Ham are genuinely keen on making a bid for the Belgian, however, they are expected to have to break the bank to acquire his services.

That's according to Messoudi, who told Gazet van Antwerpen [via West Ham Zone] that they would have to pay more than the £22million Rennes spent on Jeremy Doku, which is the current outgoing transfer record in Belgium:

"Club Brugge used him smartly last season, and he did not burn out. They allowed him to rest at the right time and put him on the bench. Now, De Ketelaere is reaping the benefits.

"As an attacking all-rounder, he’s even (Club Brugge’s) top scorer.

"For me, De Ketelaere is the most valuable player in Belgium at the moment. I am sure he will break the outgoing transfer record set by Jeremy Doku."

The Verdict: Worth the money?

De Ketelaere is clearly a special young talent, so West Ham could be wise to take a gamble on him and pay a huge amount of money.

He has already made 85 appearances for Brugge, despite his tender years, with 11 goals and 13 assists in that time proof that his game also contains substance.

De Ketelaere has scored once in two caps for Belgium, too, suggesting a bright international career awaits him, further highlighting why West Ham would be wise to make a move.

In other news, a journalist has made a transfer claim regarding one rumoured West Ham target. Find out who it is here.