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Kevin De Bruyne's illustrious tenure at Manchester City appears to be nearing its conclusion, with his contract set to expire in June 2025. The 33-year-old Belgian midfielder has been a main-stay in City's success over the past decade and is now at the center of global transfer speculation. In a significant development, MLS side Chicago Fire has initiated preliminary discussions to secure De Bruyne on a free transfer this summer. The club aims to bolster its squad with international stars, having previously attempted to sign Neymar. De Bruyne has expressed interest in the MLS as a post-City destination, making Chicago's approach particularly noteworthy.
While Chicago Fire leads the MLS pursuit, other clubs have also shown interest. Inter Miami holds priority rights within the league, and San Diego FC had been linked to De Bruyne but has reportedly withdrawn from the race. Beyond the MLS, Saudi Pro League clubs, notably Al-Nassr, are keen on acquiring De Bruyne's services, with reports suggesting Cristiano Ronaldo is advocating for the move.
Man City reportedly looking at Florian Wirtz as De Bruyne replacement
Despite these opportunities, De Bruyne remains open to staying in Europe if presented with a compelling project. With his City chapter getting over at the end of the current season, manager Pep Guardiola has acknowledged the challenges of replacing a player of De Bruyne's calibre. In anticipation of his potential departure, City is reportedly targeting Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz as a successor. Wirtz, a 21-year-old German international, has attracted interest from top clubs, including Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, and is valued at approximately 150 million euros.
As the summer transfer window approaches, De Bruyne's next move remains uncertain. With options spanning the MLS, Saudi Arabia, and Europe, his decision will significantly impact the football landscape. Fans and clubs alike await his choice, which will mark the next chapter in the career of one of football's most distinguished midfielders.
