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Transfer window heats up as Man City icons linked with Saudi move

De Bruyne’s uncertain future

Kevin De Bruyne’s future at Manchester City has been a hot topic of late. According to talkSPORT , the Belgian midfielder has yet to reach an agreement with Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad, despite rumours of a possible transfer. While personal terms have reportedly been finalised, talkSPORT clarifies that there is currently no deal in place.

Saudi Arabian interest

Saudi Arabia have shown significant interest in De Bruyne, with the Premier League champions likely to demand around £100m for one of their best ever players. De Bruyne is in the final year of his City contract and Saudi clubs are said to be prepared to wait until he is available for free next summer if necessary.

240622 EURO2024 BELGIUM VS ROMANIA Kevin De Bruyne 7 of Belgium looks dejected during a soccer match between the national teams of Belgium, called the Red Devils and Romania on Matchday 2 of Group E of the group stage of the UEFA EURO, EM, Europameisterschaft,Fussball 2024 tournament, on Saturday, June 22, 2024 in Cologne, Germany. PHOTO Isosport Maarten Straetemans Cologne GERMANY PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxBELxUKxUSA Copyright: xx 467116

Possible transfer to Al Hilal

Interestingly, De Bruyne could opt for a move to Al Hilal if he decides to move to Saudi Arabia. This preference stems from Al Hilal’s role as the Gulf nation’s Club World Cup representatives in 2025, making them a more attractive option.

Ederson also in the mix

De Bruyne’s team-mate Ederson has also attracted interest from Saudi clubs, with Al Ittihad, home to stars including Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Fabinho, said to be considering a bid for the Brazilian goalkeeper. Ederson was previously linked with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, who have since withdrawn interest after a £25million bid was rejected.

Photo IMAGO

The cost of landing Ederson

Any club interested in acquiring Ederson would have to pay upwards of £30m. Like De Bruyne, Ederson is in the final year of his City contract, leaving his future uncertain. Al Ittihad have also shown interest in West Ham’s Alphonse Areola, but no formal approach has been made.

The Guardiola era at Manchester City

De Bruyne and Ederson have been crucial to Manchester City’s success under Pep Guardiola. During their time at the club, they have won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four Carabao Cups and a Champions League. They also secured a Super Cup and Club World Cup last season, along with two Community Shields.

Expected move from Moussa Diaby

In related news, Al Ittihad are close to completing the signing of Moussa Diaby from Aston Villa. TalkSPORT reports that a five-year deal has been agreed for the French forward, with a package worth close to £60million. Diaby is expected to pass a medical soon, which would cement his move to the 2022-23 Saudi Pro League champions.

Busy transfer window for Aston Villa

Aston Villa are active in the transfer market, having made seven signings including Chelsea’s Ian Maatsen and Hull’s Jaden Philogene as the Villans prepare for Champions League football next season after finishing fourth in the Premier League.

Our vision – EPL index

The news of potential transfers for De Bruyne and Ederson is both exciting and nerve-wracking. These players have been instrumental in our recent successes and their departure would leave a significant void. However, it is exciting to see the club attract such high-profile interest from abroad. De Bruyne’s potential move to Saudi Arabia is indicative of the growing influence and appeal of the Saudi Pro League. It is testament to his outstanding ability that clubs are willing to wait until next summer to secure his services.

On the other hand, there is a sense of scepticism. The reported interest in both De Bruyne and Ederson from Saudi clubs could be a tactic to unsettle our key players ahead of crucial seasons. While the financial incentives are huge, the Premier League offers a competitive advantage and a chance to continue competing at the highest level. Losing these stars could disrupt our momentum and replacing them would be no easy task.

In conclusion, while rumours of a move for De Bruyne and Ederson to Saudi Arabia are circulating, their focus remains on Manchester City. The coming months will be crucial in determining their future, but for now, City fans can enjoy seeing two of the best players in the world in the Sky Blue.


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