Kevin De Bruyne (34) is more likely to continue playing in a sky blue uniform even after leaving Manchester City. Napoli is reported to be leading the transfer battle for De Bruyne, who will soon become a free agent.

The Italian outlet 'Tutto Mercato Web' reported on the 12th (Korean time) that "Napoli, committed to the Scudetto (Serie A title) race, has already begun planning for the next transfer market. There is already a very popular name in midfield. That is De Bruyne."

The media noted that "Aurelio De Laurentiis, the president of Napoli, and Giovanni Manna, the sporting director, are working closely to handle a very complex situation with De Bruyne himself, his family, his lawyer, and associates. Manna has been quietly traveling between Italy and England for the past two months."

It is an amazing story, but not an impossible one. Tutto Mercato Web expressed hope that "Considering everything in terms of the player's absolute value, De Bruyne's move to Napoli could be a coup akin to Gonzalo Higuaín's two transfers."

De Bruyne announced that he would part ways with Man City at the end of this season. He stated last month on social media, "This season will be the last few months as a Man City player. Writing this is not easy, but it is a situation that a player must face at some point. Manchester will forever be a name remembered by our family."

He also stated, "Like it or not, it is now time to say goodbye. Manchester will remain forever in our family's hearts, as well as on our passports." He added, "This place has always been our home. I cannot express in words my gratitude to everyone—this city, the club staff, colleagues, friends, and family—for sharing the journey of the past 10 years."

Born in 1991, De Bruyne is one of the legends that will remain in Premier League history. Since donning the Man City jersey in 2015, he has achieved six Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League title, two FA Cup titles, and five EFL Cup titles in collaboration with coach Pep Guardiola. He was part of the 'treble' in the 2022-2023 season.

The sudden departure was Man City's decision. De Bruyne remarked, "I hadn't received any offers all year, and Man City made the decision. I was obviously a bit surprised, but it is something I have to accept. Honestly, I still believe I can play at the highest level like now."

Now concluding his time at Man City, De Bruyne still boasts immense popularity. Major League Soccer (MLS) and Saudi Arabian clubs, backed by oil money, have consistently shown interest. It is also reported that Aston Villa in the Premier League has internally discussed the signing of De Bruyne.

Despite various rumors, De Bruyne's inclination seems to lean towards Napoli. According to Italian transfer market expert Gianluca Di Marzio, director Manna visited Manchester in recent weeks to talk with De Bruyne.

'Sky Sports' Italy reported that "Napoli explained their sports project during the meeting with De Bruyne and discussed understanding his demands. Di Marzio stated that De Bruyne is open to a move to Napoli and is reviewing with his family and associates."

The media added that "The transfer of De Bruyne to Napoli will be very complex. They are striving to win the competition against other big clubs. Teams from the MLS and Saudi Pro League want De Bruyne as well. However, it seems he is more likely to stay in Europe at this stage of his career."

Di Marzio revealed that De Bruyne is seriously considering a move to Napoli. He stated, "De Bruyne is open to the move to Napoli. However, he is being watched by Premier League and several leagues and does not want to rush into a decision." He added, "Napoli is hoping to receive a definitive 'yes' from De Bruyne before discussing the financial details of the transaction."

He also explained, "Napoli is trying hard to persuade De Bruyne. They are putting all their energy into convincing him of the crucial and pivotal role he could play in a club like Napoli, especially ahead of next season's Champions League. Napoli has been working for him for over a month."

Tutto Mercato Web asserted that it is entirely possible for De Bruyne to wear Napoli's sky blue uniform. The media emphasized, "De Bruyne and Napoli. A dream that seemed impossible could become a reality. It is not easy, but another 'Cristiano Ronaldo' could emerge in Serie A. De Bruyne has been recognized for his reputation and value among midfielders over the past 20 years."

Continuing, Tutto Mercato Web mentioned, "President De Laurentiis is seeking excellent signings like De Bruyne for coach Antonio Conte. They intend to offer a two-year contract with a one-year extension option." It further mentioned, "De Bruyne has received significant offers from MLS but wishes to remain in the major leagues of Europe, with Napoli being the most viable lead."

De Bruyne's wife, Michelle, is reported to have already visited Napoli to look for housing. She has reportedly stayed in Napoli privately and visited several apartments. Tutto Mercato Web explained, "It is no coincidence that De Bruyne's wife has already been to Napoli. She is trying to find a place, area, and property where she, De Bruyne, and their children can live."

If Michelle is satisfied with Naples, De Bruyne's move to Napoli will gain momentum, as he prioritizes his family's life. In fact, De Bruyne turned down a transfer to Saudi Arabia last summer due to the educational and living environment for his two sons and daughter.

De Bruyne also mentioned, "I will see which team wants me after discussing with my family. I can still perform at the highest level. I would gladly consider any potential project. I love football, and if I receive a good project suggestion that my family also likes, I can make a decision," highlighting the importance of his family.

Napoli hopes that De Bruyne and his Belgium national team colleague Romelu Lukaku will persuade him. However, De Bruyne is currently focused on concluding his journey at Man City in the best possible way, so it appears negotiations will not be completed anytime soon. Nevertheless, Tutto Mercato Web provided a positive outlook, saying, "Do not expect any developments tomorrow. But soon..."

[Photo] Backpost UK, Transfermarkt, Kevin De Bruyne, Sky Sports, Man City social media.

[OSEN]