Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City is reportedly preparing to join Napoli next season, with talks between the Belgian midfielder and the Serie A champions expected to begin next week, according to ESPN. De Bruyne is said to be considering a free transfer, potentially teaming up with his national teammate Romelu Lukaku, after previously being linked to MLS side Chicago Fire.
This development follows Manchester City’s decision last month not to renew De Bruyne’s contract. The 33-year-old midfielder arrived at the club from VfL Wolfsburg in 2015 for £55 million and has played a pivotal role in City’s success, contributing to six Premier League titles and the club’s first Champions League win in 2023.
Although De Bruyne expressed a desire to stay at the Etihad, the club informed him they would not offer an extension beyond his current contract, which ends in June. His final appearance for City is expected to take place on Sunday against Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Since news broke about his departure, De Bruyne has attracted attention from clubs across the Premier League, Bundesliga, and MLS. However, Napoli has now emerged as the leading contender to sign him, with formal discussions set to begin after the Premier League season concludes. ESPN reports that the negotiations are anticipated to proceed smoothly.
As he prepares to close his chapter with Manchester City, De Bruyne has recorded 72 goals and 118 assists — ranking second in all-time Premier League assists, behind only Ryan Giggs with 162.
Heading into Sunday, City is in third place on the league table, trailing behind Arsenal and league champions Liverpool, with a record of 20 wins, 8 draws, and 9 losses, totaling 68 points.
