Neom SC in talks with De Bruyne: Is a Saudi move the best option for him? | OneFootball

Several midfielders in the Premier League are approaching the end of their contracts this season. Among them, the most prominent name is Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne. With just weeks remaining in the campaign, the Belgian is set to become a free agent after spending a decade at the club. He is now free to negotiate with other teams.

One such club is Saudi Arabian side Neom SC, according to Foot Mercato. Neom SC currently competes in the Saudi First Division League, the country’s second tier. After winning the Saudi Second Division League last season, they are pushing for back-to-back promotions and currently sit at the top of the table.

Former West Ham United player Saïd Benrahma, who is on loan from French club Lyon, is part of Neom SC’s squad. As they prepare for life in the top flight, the club is setting its sights on De Bruyne. It wouldn't be the first time a newly promoted Saudi club has signed a high-profile player, over the past two years, several stars have moved to teams coming from the second division, including De Bruyne’s former Manchester City teammate Riyad Mahrez, who joined Al-Ahli.

Reports suggest that initial discussions between De Bruyne and Neom SC have been positive, with negotiations ongoing. Speaking about a potential move to Saudi Arabia earlier, the midfielder admitted: "At my age, you have to be open to everything. We are talking about incredible sums of money for what could be the end of my career. Sometimes, you have to think about it."

However, Neom SC is not the only club interested. River Plate, Galatasaray, and Fenerbahçe are also monitoring De Bruyne’s situation.

With De Bruyne’s history of injuries, it is understandable why he is considering a move to a league that is less demanding while offering a lucrative salary. Such a move could also benefit Belgium ahead of the 2026 World Cup, ensuring that a player of his caliber remains match-sharp and free from recurring injury issues. The World Cup factor also raises the possibility of De Bruyne extending his contract with Manchester City, with manager Pep Guardiola reportedly expecting him to stay. However, given the kind of season City are having, the club may be looking to overhaul the squad, which could influence their decision regarding the midfielder’s future.

De Bruyne joined Manchester City ahead of the 2015–16 season and has since been instrumental in the club’s success. The 33-year-old has won six Premier League titles and lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy once.

This season has been challenging for both De Bruyne and Manchester City. Injuries have limited him to just 30 appearances, many of them coming off the bench. The club has already been eliminated from the Champions League and currently trails league leaders Liverpool by 22 points. However, they remain in contention for silverware, having reached the FA Cup semi-finals.