As the current campaign wraps up, Kevin De Bruyne’s contract with Manchester City is set to expire, leaving his future uncertain. The 32-year-old Belgian midfielder, who has been pivotal for the club, is attracting significant interest from Saudi Arabian clubs and Major League Soccer (MLS) teams, suggesting a potential high-profile move this summer.
De Bruyne’s ninth season with Manchester City concluded last month, marking another successful year for the player. Despite undergoing hamstring surgery in August, De Bruyne made a remarkable recovery and was instrumental in City’s campaign, contributing to 23 goals in 26 games.
His efforts helped Pep Guardiola’s side secure the Premier League title for the fourth consecutive time. De Bruyne’s return was marked by a stellar performance at St James’ Park in January.
Throughout his tenure with Manchester City, De Bruyne has amassed 180 direct goal involvements in the Premier League, making him the club’s top scorer for the season. His most recent goal came in April against Brighton, and his final appearance was in the FA Cup Final against Manchester United in May. Despite his impressive contributions, De Bruyne’s future with the club remains in doubt.
Negotiations are underway between De Bruyne’s representatives and potential suitors, including San Diego FC in the MLS and various Saudi Arabian teams. In a candid interview with HLN Sport, De Bruyne expressed his openness to a move to Saudi Arabia, citing the substantial financial incentives as a key consideration, especially as he nears the twilight of his career. “At my age, you have to be open to such opportunities,” De Bruyne said. “Playing for two years in Saudi Arabia could earn me a significant amount of money, something I’ve never seen in my career.”
De Bruyne also acknowledged the impact of such a move on his family, particularly his eldest child, who has only known life in England. He emphasized the importance of weighing his options carefully, given his contract with Manchester City still has a year left.
In addition to De Bruyne, Saudi Arabian clubs are reportedly eyeing other Manchester City stars, including Kyle Walker, Ederson, and Matheus Nunes. This interest comes in the wake of Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte’s moves from Etihad Stadium to the Middle East last summer, indicating City’s willingness to negotiate with Saudi teams.
Julian Alvarez of Manchester City is also attracting attention, particularly from Atletico Madrid. After his second season at the Etihad, the Spanish club has made an approach for the Argentine striker. Despite Alvarez’s significant contributions, including 19 goals in his debut season, he remains behind Erling Haaland in City’s pecking order. Atletico Madrid, keen to bolster their squad, views Alvarez as a prime target.
Alvarez’s contract with Manchester City runs for another four years, and despite interest from Atletico and Barcelona, he has expressed satisfaction with his current playing time. He stated, “I played more this season and I’m happy to be playing a lot more now.”
Manchester City and Pep Guardiola have shown a pragmatic approach to player transfers, allowing key players to leave if they wish.
This approach has seen stars like Raheem Sterling and Aymeric Laporte move on. With interest in Ederson from Saudi Arabia and De Bruyne’s potential departure, City continues to navigate the complexities of retaining top talent while accommodating their players’ ambitions.
