Report: Star midfielder targeted by Conte’s Serie A winning side | OneFootball

Kevin De Bruyne’s Next Chapter: Napoli Beckons as Manchester City Era Ends

Conte’s Napoli Eyes De Bruyne Coup

In the cobbled streets of Naples, title celebrations are still echoing. Yet, behind closed doors, the ambition is already moving forward — and Antonio Conte may be about to pull off one of the most symbolic signings in European football. According to Paul Hirst of The Times, Kevin De Bruyne will fly to Italy next week to enter direct talks with Napoli over a two-year deal. His departure from Manchester City after a decade marks the end of an era, not only for the club but arguably for the Premier League as well.

De Bruyne, now 33, is out of contract on June 30. Manchester City, after internal deliberation, have confirmed they will not be extending his deal. The decision, while not wholly unexpected, has still landed with emotional weight. He has won 14 major trophies, been a six-time Premier League champion, and been the rhythm behind City’s relentless dominance.

“It’s weird because for my family, it’s home. My kids were born here,” De Bruyne admitted to the club’s official website. “I don’t think I can explain how I feel about everything, how much I appreciate it, so I can just say thank you.”

Friendship, Familiarity and the Future in Italy

Napoli’s sudden emergence as frontrunners isn’t solely driven by prestige or money — it’s also personal. The southern Italian champions boast not only Serie A silverware but also Romelu Lukaku, one of De Bruyne’s closest allies from the Belgium national team setup. Add in Scottish midfielders Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay, and there’s a compelling support network in place.

Photo: IMAGO

Conte, known for drawing the best from seasoned professionals, sees De Bruyne as the creative force to push Napoli into the upper echelons of European competition. The allure of tactical rigour, Champions League football, and a fresh challenge in a storied football city could be hard to resist.

Other Suitors Still in the Frame

Of course, Napoli are not alone in their pursuit. Chicago Fire of MLS, clubs in the Saudi Pro League, and even one unnamed Premier League side in the top half remain keen. But De Bruyne’s reluctance to uproot his family from the north-west of England may yet influence matters.

Despite the offers, the midfielder reportedly “wanted to stay at City for at least another year.” The lack of a contract extension wasn’t about ability — more likely a pragmatic decision by City, perhaps anticipating a generational shift in their midfield.

City fans bid farewell at the Etihad last Tuesday, a heartfelt gesture to a player who didn’t just contribute — he defined a footballing philosophy. “Thank you for supporting me, obviously supporting the team, the club, supporting my family, my kids,” De Bruyne said. “It’s always been positive towards me and my family.”

End of a City Dynasty Symbolised

For all the trophies and numbers, it’s De Bruyne’s intangible influence that lingers. He was the conduit between Guardiola’s abstract vision and on-pitch execution — someone who made the extraordinary routine. His departure, just months after lifting another league title, feels like the full stop to a golden chapter.

That he could now be the crown jewel in Napoli’s renaissance is a reminder that elite careers rarely drift into twilight — sometimes, they pivot and restart.

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From a Manchester City supporter’s lens, this transition is as sobering as it is logical. Kevin De Bruyne’s potential move to Napoli signifies a graceful exit rather than a sudden break — a tribute to his consistency and City’s forward planning. The affection remains mutual. His quotes are soaked in gratitude, not resentment, which softens the blow for those in sky blue.

Fans may question the club’s decision not to offer him an additional year — especially with no signs of dramatic decline in his form. His influence in the dressing room and on the pitch remains irreplaceable in the short term. However, with age and wages considered, and midfield talents emerging, it’s clear City are looking to the future.

Should he land in Naples, there’ll be a twinge of regret every time a blue shirt misses a pass he would’ve made blindfolded. But there will also be pride — knowing one of the club’s all-time greats is being courted by Europe’s elite until the very end.