Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne has found himself at the center of transfer speculation, with the possibility of a move to Saudi Arabia looming large. The midfield maestro was approached last summer with an enticing offer from Saudi Arabia, reportedly around £59.7 million per year. With his contract expiring in 2025, De Bruyne had initially planned to extend his stay and possibly retire at the club, according to Sam Lee at The Athletic.
Manchester City’s Contract Renewal Policy Could Pose A Problem
Pep Guardiola Wants De Bruyne To Stay
Manchester City typically adopts a strict approach to contract renewals, especially for players in their mid-thirties. Ilkay Gundogan’s departure to Barcelona after the club delayed contract talks highlights this stance. De Bruyne, who is approaching 33, is aware of these negotiating tactics, having experienced it during his last contract renewal in 2021. However, recent negotiations with Kyle Walker showcase a degree of flexibility. Walker’s intention to join Bayern Munich prompted the club to offer him a two-year extension despite his age.
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Pep Guardiola has expressed his desire for De Bruyne to stay at the club. Despite reported interest from Saudi Arabian clubs, Guardiola emphasized that the decision ultimately rests with the player. He said: “It’s a question for him, I’d love him to stay but I don’t know. I heard some links but I don’t know if there’s an offer, I don’t know if Saudi Arabia wants him. I would love him to stay until the end of his career, but everyone is everyone.”
🚨🇸🇦 Pep Guardiola on Kevin de Bruyne linked with Saudi move: “It’s a question for him”.
“I'd love that he stays, but I don’t know… I don’t know if he has an offer, I don’t know if Saudi Arabia wants him”.
“I would love for him to stay at City, of course”. pic.twitter.com/VA4Mj8JARo
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 26, 2024
With 18 months left on his current contract, the defending Premier League champions are yet to initiate talks over a new deal. The Belgian’s recovery from a hamstring injury will likely influence contract discussions, as they assesses his future contribution on the pitch. Despite Saudi Arabia’s persistent interest, City may opt to retain the midfielder for another year without rushing into contract negotiations.
Will Manchester City Actually Part Ways With Kevin De Bruyne?
While the midfielder remains committed to the team, the Pro League’s persistent pursuit, spearheaded by Michael Emenalo, poses a challenge. Emenalo has a history of facilitating transfers like De Bruyne’s move to Chelsea from Genk. However, according to The Athletic, the 32-year-old may not be keen on a move to Saudi Arabia. Instead, he might favour ending his career in Major League Soccer (MLS) after his spell in England.
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Guardiola’s side may entertain the prospect of selling the Belgian if they deem it financially prudent, given their ability to generate revenue from player sales. However, the definition of a “big fee” remains subjective, with figures exceeding £90 million speculated. In light of that, a Saudi team may not be inclined to meet City’s valuation. While they are willing to offer substantial wages, their historical reluctance to pay exorbitant transfer fees could hinder negotiations.
There is certainly no rush for either side to make a decision right away. The decision will hinge on various factors, including De Bruyne’s performance for the remainder of the 2023-24 season, contract negotiations, and potential offers.
