Reports indicate that Manchester City have devised a strategy to find a replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who is anticipated to exit the Premier League champions this summer.
De Bruyne's long-term prospects are uncertain since he ranks among the 20 top footballers who might become free agents in 2025.
The Belgian international ranks among the top midfielders in Premier League history, yet injuries in recent years have affected him, causing him to drop in the hierarchy at the Etihad.
The 33-year-old has started just 12 Premier League matches for Man City this season, and he seems more likely to depart with interest from the Saudi Pro League and MLS.
Ex-Premier League chief scout Mick Brown believes De Bruyne is eager to ‘leave’ Man City as he ‘desires’ a transfer to the MLS.
Brown informed Football Insider: “Man City believes they have an excess of older players.
"De Bruyne is among them, and they are now ready to allow him to depart when his contract expires, after which they will seek a younger substitute." He has come to the conclusion of his time with City in the Premier League.
"He's still an excellent technician, but like everyone else, he's lost his mobility." Particularly following the period he was sidelined due to injuries, it’s challenging to recover from that physically.
"There has been discussion about a transfer to MLS with San Diego, which I believe would be ideal for him."
“It resembles what we’ve observed Lionel Messi accomplish, traveling to America and competing at a lesser intensity.”
"That's a decision De Bruyne aims to pursue at this point in his career."
Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz has garnered significant interest from Man City as a possible replacement, with a report from The Mirror suggesting they might pursue their ‘dream’ signing in a surprising ‘swap deal’.
Manchester City aim to acquire their primary target Florian Wirtz at the Etihad this summer – and might involve James McAtee in the process.
They are expected to resume activity in the summer to propel themselves back into the title contention after witnessing Liverpool surpass them this season, while Bayer Leverkusen's German star Wirtz has become their main objective.
Wirtz is regarded as the ideal direct substitute for De Bruyne – whose contract ends this summer – after showcasing his exceptional creative performances in midfield under Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso.
He has scored 15 goals and provided 11 assists in all competitions for the Bundesliga team, establishing himself as one of Europe's top talents, with City expected to lead the pursuit.
City star McAtee is also a focus for Leverkusen this summer. They overlooked a loan transfer in January and are monitoring the 22-year-old. Their interest might be crucial to City's chances of finalizing a deal for Wirtz, as a possible swap deal could benefit both sides.
‘However, it wouldn't be a swap in the same transaction – for PSR purposes, it would be executed as two distinct deals – which would further improve City’s capacity to invest this summer, Since all the funds from McAtee’s departure would be reflected on their balance sheet.
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