Kevin de Bruyne has allegedly agreed to personal terms with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad as he explores a stunning departure from Manchester City.
De Bruyne, who joined City from Wolfsburg for £55 million in 2015, has played an important role in Pep Guardiola’s successful team over the previous decade.
However, the 33-year-old now returns from Euro 2024 with only one year remaining on his contract at the Etihad and rising doubts about his future.
In June, the Belgian mentioned the notion of relocating to the Middle East, citing ‘the huge quantities of money’ on offer.
And De Bruyne seems to have taken the latest step towards a move, with journalist Rudy Galetti reporting that the midfielder has agreed personal terms with Saudi side Al-Ittihad.
Al-Ittihad, who finished fifth last season, recently appointed former Manchester United defender Laurent Blanc as their head coach and boast a side that includes Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante.
With one year left on his deal at City, a transfer fee would still have to be agreed with the Pep Guardiola’s side to sanction the move.
When asked about a move to Saudi earlier in the summer, De Bruyne told Belgian publication HLN: At my age you have to be open to everything.
‘You’re talking about incredible amounts of money in what may be the end of my career. Sometimes you have to think about that.
‘If I play there for two years, I will be able to earn an incredible amount of money.
‘Before that I had to play football for 15 years. I may not even reach that amount yet.’
De Bruyne might not be the only City player to leave for Saudi Arabia this summer, with Al Nassr also interested in first-choice keeper Ederson.
City are said to be holding out for £42 million for the Brazilian keeper having rejected an opening bid of £25m.