Tuesday`s updates suggest a definitive agreement between Napoli and Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne could be just 48 hours away. The player`s legal team is reportedly arriving in Italy this afternoon to formalize the deal.
Key Information on Napoli`s Pursuit of De Bruyne
De Bruyne`s contract expires on June 30. He has concluded his Manchester City career under Pep Guardiola, bidding farewell after a decade that saw him win six Premier League titles, a Champions League, and numerous other trophies.
Following the news of his departure from Man City, several clubs were linked with the 33-year-old Belgian, including teams in MLS, Saudi Arabia, and various Premier League and Serie A sides like Inter and newly promoted Como.
Recent reports indicate De Bruyne believes he can still perform at a high competitive level. His family life is also cited as a crucial factor in deciding his next destination.
On May 8, Italian media reports emerged suggesting Napoli had initiated discussions about signing De Bruyne as a free agent.
Napoli became an attractive option for the midfielder due to their Champions League qualification and their victory in the 2024-25 Serie A title race on the final day. A personal connection exists too, as De Bruyne and his wife were married in nearby Sorrento in 2017.
His wife has reportedly visited Naples since then, seemingly to search for potential homes and schools for their three children.
Napoli also has the presence of Romelu Lukaku, De Bruyne`s long-time international teammate. Former Belgium and Napoli favourite Dries Mertens has also hinted at discussing the prospect of playing in Naples with De Bruyne.
Proposed Contract Terms with Napoli
Napoli has reportedly discussed the terms of a potential contract with De Bruyne`s representatives.
The latest information suggests Napoli has offered a three-year contract. It`s reported to be worth €6 million per season for the first two years, decreasing to €5 million in the final year.
Signing this deal would keep De Bruyne at the club until he is 36.
Napoli`s Hint During Title Celebrations
During the team`s open-top bus parade celebrating their Serie A title win in Naples on Monday, Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis strongly hinted at De Bruyne`s impending arrival.
ADL stated that De Bruyne had already purchased a house in Italy and mentioned speaking with the player, his wife, and one of his sons earlier that day. However, he added he wouldn`t officially confirm anything “until we have something in black and white.”
Napoli defender Juan Jesus has also publicly welcomed De Bruyne, commenting “we are waiting for you” on one of the player`s recent Instagram posts.
Current reports from journalists like Matteo Moretto and Fabrizio Romano confirm that De Bruyne`s lawyers are traveling to Italy to finalize the agreement and sign off on the financial aspects of the contract with Napoli.
These updates suggest a formal announcement could happen within the next 48 hours.
