Napoli director drops two-word update on De Bruyne transfer | OneFootball

Napoli director Giovanni Manna confirms the Partenopei are ‘pretty close’ to signing Kevin De Bruyne as a free agent.

De Bruyne’s contract expires at the end of the season, but Napoli have been in talks with his camp for several weeks.

Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis confirmed on Thursday evening that Antonio Conte would remain at the club beyond the summer, but reporters also requested updates on De Bruyne.

Napoli director Giovanni Manna and coach Antonio Conte

Therefore, ADL called Manna, saying: “He is in continuous contact with De Bruyne and his lawyers.”

At that point, Manna replied with just two words and a smile: “Pretty close,” said the Napoli director via Sky Sport.

De Bruyne is available on a free transfer as his contract with Manchester City expires at the end of the season.

The Premier League giants decided against offering KDB a new deal, so the Partenopei made their move alongside Chicago Fire and Fenerbahce.

Transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri reported on Thursday that De Bruyne had rejected a €25m offer for two seasons from Fenerbahce to sign for Napoli.

Why De Bruyne will leave Manchester City

“I have not had any offer the whole year, they [Man City] just took a decision,” De Bruyne said in April, via BBC.

“Obviously, I was a bit surprised but I just have to accept it. Honestly, I still think I can perform at this level like I’m showing, but I understand clubs have to make decisions.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 20: Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City looks on after the Premier League match between Manchester City FC and AFC Bournemouth at Etihad Stadium on May 20, 2025 in Manchester, England, This match is to be Kevin De Bruyne’s last home match for Manchester City before he departs in the summer when his contract expires. De Bruyne, will receive a guard of honour from team-mates and staff after a successful 10-year career at the club seeing him win 6 leagues titles and the Champions League. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

“I feel like I still have a lot to give. Obviously I know I’m not 25 any more but I still feel like I can do my job.

“I’m open for anything. I have to look at the whole picture. I’m looking at sporting, family, everything together, what makes the most sense for me and my family.

“I like to play football. I like to compete. That’s what I feel, so I can’t say that I want to quit because I still feel that whenever I’m in training I want to beat the guys.”