Football Transfer News: Saudis target De Bruyne

Manchester City faces the looming prospect of bids for star player Kevin De Bruyne from the Saudi Pro League this summer, amplifying the uncertainty surrounding the midfielder’s contract at the Etihad Stadium.

Rumors about De Bruyne’s future at Manchester City are gaining traction as reports suggest that discussions for a contract extension have yet to commence. The Daily Mail has revealed that the absence of negotiations is prompting increased interest from the ambitious Saudi Pro League, with league officials intensifying efforts to lure the Belgian playmaker away from England.

De Bruyne, a pivotal figure in Manchester City’s midfield, sees his current contract with the club running until 2025. However, the absence of discussions regarding a contract extension opens the door for potential suitors, with the Saudi Pro League emerging as a notable contender.

The Saudi clubs find De Bruyne an appealing prospect for several reasons. At 32, the Belgian maestro is entering the twilight of his career, making him an attractive option for clubs in search of experienced talent. Furthermore, the warm weather climate of Saudi Arabia could potentially aid in extending De Bruyne’s playing days, particularly considering his recent struggles with injuries.

Adding to the intrigue is the fact that De Bruyne’s contract is set to expire in 2025, and by the time summer arrives, it will have only one year left to run. This ticking clock enhances the possibility of a separation between the player and Manchester City, adding weight to the interest from the Saudi Pro League.

Interestingly, the connection between De Bruyne and Saudi Arabia goes back to his early years at Chelsea in 2012 when he was signed by Michael Emenalo, who is now the sports director of the Saudi Pro League. Emenalo, who scouted and brought De Bruyne to Chelsea, maintained his ties with the Belgian midfielder, as evidenced by his presence at a Manchester City training session during December’s FIFA Club World Cup in the Middle East.

Looking ahead, the focus for De Bruyne remains on the current season, with the midfielder aiming to contribute significantly as Manchester City pursues an unprecedented fourth successive Premier League title. Additionally, the club seeks to achieve a historic feat by becoming England’s first back-to-back European champions since Nottingham Forest 44 years ago.

As the summer transfer window approaches, the saga surrounding De Bruyne’s contract and potential move to the Saudi Pro League adds a layer of intrigue to Manchester City’s campaign on both domestic and European fronts.

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Mohamed Suez

Meet Mohamed Suez, a die-hard Al-Hilal fan and one of our passionate contributors. Hailing from the football-mad nation of Saudi Arabia, Mohamed's articles are a heartfelt tribute to the triumphs and tribulations of his beloved club. As an Al-Hilal insider, Mohamed offers readers an intimate look into the fan culture, historic moments, and the unwavering loyalty that defines being a supporter of the "Blue Wave."