Kevin De Bruyne has reportedly finalized terms with a new club in anticipation of a possible departure from Manchester City this summer, according to various sources.
With his current contract at the Etihad Stadium set to expire in 2025, De Bruyne, who will be 34 by then, has been heavily linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, a destination that has recently attracted numerous top-tier players.
Journalist Rudy Galetti claims that there is a “verbal agreement” between De Bruyne and Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad. Discussions between the club’s representatives, key members of the Public Investment Fund, and De Bruyne have reportedly led to his approval of the move.
While Al Nassr, home to stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, and Aymeric Laporte, has also shown interest, Al Ittihad seems to have taken the lead.
The report further suggests that Manchester City is willing to let De Bruyne, one of their most distinguished players, leave for an appropriate fee.
Goalkeeper Ederson is also rumored to be considering a move to Saudi Arabia. De Bruyne has previously mentioned that the “incredible amounts of money” available at this stage of his career are hard to ignore.
“For my wife Michele, an exotic adventure is acceptable,” he told Het Laatste Nieuws. “These are discussions we are increasingly having as a family. I still have one year left on my contract, so I need to consider future possibilities.
“My eldest child, now eight, has only ever known life in England. He often asks how much longer I’ll play for City. When the time comes, we’ll have to address it accordingly.
“At my age, it’s important to remain open to all opportunities. The financial rewards could be extraordinary as I approach the end of my career. Playing there for two years might earn me a sum that I’d otherwise need 15 years to accumulate. It’s something to think about.”
De Bruyne joined Manchester City from Wolfsburg in 2015 and has since won six Premier League titles, five Carabao Cups, two FA Cups, and one Champions League with the club.
