Napoli in talks to sign De Bruyne as a free agent | OneFootball

Reports in Italy claim that Napoli are in talks with Kevin De Bruyne as a possible free signing as his contract with Manchester City expires in June.

Sky Sport Italia transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio and Corriere dello Sport report that Serie A leaders Napoli have targeted Belgian star De Bruyne and have opened talks over a possible free transfer for 2025-26.

Manchester City won’t extend the 33-year-old’s contract, and Napoli have already sounded out his availability for next season.

TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 11: Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City controls the ball under pressure from Federico Gatti and Kenan Yildiz of Juventus during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Juventus and Manchester City at Juventus Stadium on December 11, 2024 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Napoli are the current Serie A leaders and have already secured a Champions League spot for next season.

After securing the services of Romelu Lukaku, Scott McTominay, and Billy Gilmour from the Premier League last summer, the Partenopei have targeted another star from England’s top flight.

According to Di Marzio, Napoli hope the positive relationship between KDB and his compatriot Lukaku will help them negotiate with the Manchester City ace, a 2023 Champions League winner.

De Bruyne has already received an offer from Chicago Fire in the MLS, while Fabrizio Romano has recently denied reports of interest from Como and Chelsea.

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 last month, 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.

“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.”