Napoli open formal talks for Kevin De Bruyne amid Manchester City exit

Napoli have entered direct discussions with Kevin De Bruyne as the Belgian midfielder prepares to leave Manchester City at the end of the season. According to Sky Sport Italia and Gianluca Di Marzio, Napoli are positioning themselves as early contenders for the 33-year-old’s signature, anticipating his free-agent status this summer.

De Bruyne is not expected to receive a contract extension from City, as confirmed in his recent interview with BBC Sport. In that conversation, he acknowledged the club’s decision to part ways and stated that he was considering multiple factors in his next move, including his family’s needs, competitive ambitions and quality of life.

Strategic factors influence Napoli’s approach

Napoli’s interest is not solely sporting. Di Marzio reports that the club sees De Bruyne’s longstanding friendship with Romelu Lukaku—currently on loan at Napoli—as a potential advantage in their pursuit. The two Belgians have played together extensively for the national team and maintained close personal ties off the pitch.

Corriere dello Sport adds that Napoli have engaged in direct contact with both De Bruyne’s representatives and their internal technical staff to outline a dual-pillar project: one that promises competitive relevance in Europe and personal stability for the midfielder’s family.

Other links unsubstantiated

While several clubs have been loosely mentioned in connection with De Bruyne—including Como, Chelsea, and MLS sides—none of these links have been confirmed. Fabrizio Romano has not verified any active negotiations beyond the Chicago Fire’s enquiry, and the Italian press has dismissed other reports as unfounded.

Napoli’s growing Premier League recruitment line

De Bruyne would not be the first Premier League profile targeted by Napoli in this cycle. Last summer, the club brought in Romelu Lukaku, Scott McTominay, and Billy Gilmour, establishing a transfer corridor with England. Acquiring De Bruyne would mark a significant elevation of that pathway and signal Napoli’s intent to compete at the highest tier in Europe.

The Serie A leaders have already secured Champions League qualification for next season. Adding De Bruyne to their midfield core would enhance their structural control in big matches and deepen their tactical flexibility in high-intensity European fixtures.