born in antwerp, de laet began his career at belgian club royal antwerp. on 17 august 2007, he signed a three-year contract with championship team stoke city for an initial £100,000 fee. in july 2008, de laet joined bournemouth on trial and played his first game in a friendly against portsmouth, a 4–1 defeat. however, he later returned to stoke. in october 2008, he joined wrexham of the conference national on a one-month loan deal, making his debut in a 2–0 victory over lewes in the league. he made three appearances during his time at the club before his loan spell was terminated in order for him to undergo a hernia operation.