Kevin De Bruyne Open to Saudi Arabian Move After Manchester City Contract Ends

Manchester City star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has expressed his openness to a lucrative move to a Saudi Arabian club once his current Premier League contract expires in June 2024. The Belgian playmaker, who has been a key figure for Manchester City since joining in 2015, has one year remaining on his contract.

De Bruyne, 32, has won six Premier League titles and the Champions League with Manchester City. In an interview with Belgian broadcaster VTM, he acknowledged the appeal of the financial incentives offered by the Saudi Pro League. He stated, "At my age, you have to be open to everything. You talk about unbelievable amounts in what may be the end of my career. Sometimes you have to think about that."

The midfielder has also discussed the potential move with his family, including his wife Michele and their eight-year-old son. De Bruyne noted that his family is open to the idea, saying, "For Michele, an exotic escapade is OK. These are also conversations that we are increasingly having as a family." He added that his eldest child has only known England and often asks how long he will continue to play for Manchester City.

De Bruyne's openness to a move comes as he prepares for Euro 2024 with the Belgian national team. He missed almost five months of the last season because of injury, playing only 26 games in all competitions. The midfielder believes that spending two years in Saudi Arabia could allow him to "earn an incredible amount of money."

Manchester City is eager to keep De Bruyne, with manager Pep Guardiola urging him to stay until the end of his career. However, the financial lure of the Saudi Pro League is significant. De Bruyne's former teammates Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte have already made the move to Saudi clubs, highlighting the league's growing appeal.

De Bruyne's contract with Manchester City expires in June 2024, and this year might be the club's last opportunity to recoup a transfer fee for him. The midfielder's future remains uncertain as he balances the potential financial benefits of a move to Saudi Arabia with his family's considerations and his loyalty to Manchester City.

As De Bruyne contemplates his next career move, the allure of the Saudi Pro League's financial incentives is clear. His decision will undoubtedly have significant implications for both his career and his family's future.

Key Takeaways

• Kevin De Bruyne open to Saudi Pro League move after 2024 contract expires.
• Financial incentives a major draw, with "unbelievable amounts" on offer.
• De Bruyne has discussed move with family, who are open to "exotic escapade".
• Manchester City wants to keep De Bruyne, but may not be able to match Saudi offer.
• De Bruyne's decision will impact his career and family's future.