Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne is said to be in discussions with the Fire over a designated player contract, and the MLS side are viewed as leading contenders to secure his signature, according to reports from The Athletic and ESPN.
What we know: De Bruyne is set to depart Manchester City at the end of the Premier League season. He confirmed the upcoming separation in an emotional message shared on social media in April.
This move will bring an end to De Bruyne’s decade-long spell at City, where he will leave as one of the most celebrated players in the club’s history, having registered 189 goals and establishing himself as one of the most decorated footballers currently active in the Premier League.
“In the Premier League, he is one of the greatest midfielders ever to play in this country and certainly at this club,” City manager Pep Guardiola said, via the AP. “His assists, his goals, and his vision in the final third are incredibly difficult to replace.”
With his exit from Manchester City confirmed, ESPN reports that De Bruyne is now holding talks with the Fire, who are financially well positioned to complete a deal.
Technically, Inter Miami CF hold his discovery rights under MLS regulations, which are designed to stop clubs from competing directly for the same player. However, Miami have already filled their maximum number of designated player slots with Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.
The Fire currently occupy only two of their designated player positions. Both ESPN and The Athletic highlight that the ambition of owner Joe Mansueto could play a key role in Chicago’s efforts to bring De Bruyne to MLS.
What we don’t know: While multiple reports link De Bruyne with a move to Chicago, he has yet to make a final decision on his future. He could follow Messi and other former Premier League stars by joining MLS.
Alternatively, he could remain in the Premier League or opt to take a break from football altogether. All possibilities remain under consideration.
“I’m open to everything, because I need to look at the full picture,” De Bruyne said in April, according to The Athletic. “I have to consider sporting reasons, family reasons, everything together — what makes the most sense for me and my family. I don’t know yet, because it depends on who I speak to and what they say about their projects. I still feel I can play at a high level, but I’ll make a decision once I know more.”
If De Bruyne ultimately chooses a move to MLS, Chicago could be his destination.
