Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, as per sources in Italy.
With De Bruyne’s current contract at Manchester City expiring at the end of the 2024/25 season, speculation about his future has heightened.
Al-Ittihad, already featuring stars such as Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Fabinho, are eager to bolster their squad with De Bruyne. However, Kante could be returning to the Premier League, with West Ham showing interest.
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After a challenging 2023/24 season, finishing fifth without any trophies, Al-Ittihad aims to strengthen under new manager Laurent Blanc, viewing De Bruyne as a pivotal addition.
Negotiations for a transfer fee between Al-Ittihad and Manchester City are ongoing. De Bruyne seems receptive to the move, alluding last month to the financial opportunities in the Middle East.
“At my age, you have to consider everything. There are incredible financial incentives towards the end of my career,” De Bruyne stated.
“If I spend two years there (Saudi Arabia), I could earn a remarkable sum of money.”
If De Bruyne departs this summer, Manchester City will face the challenge of finding a suitable replacement. Reports link City to players like Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Joao Neves, and Xavi Simons.
In his nine years at the Etihad, De Bruyne amassed 382 appearances, 102 goals, and 170 assists, winning 15 trophies. Despite injury in the first half of last season, he returned strongly with 14 goal contributions in 18 Premier League appearances.
Former teammate Riyad Mahrez’s move to Al-Ahli last summer, reportedly earning over £800,000 weekly, highlights the financial pull of the Saudi Pro League.
As Manchester City prepare for a potential De Bruyne exit, securing a worthy successor to the Belgian maestro will hinge on the club’s financial robustness and strategic planning.