De Bruyne linked with shock Man City exit for big-money move

Manchester City talisman Kevin De Bruyne has been linked with a shock exit from the Etihad for a big-money move. 

The 32-year-old has not ruled out a potential move to the Saudi Pro League at the end of the current season, according to The Athletic journalist Sam Lee.

The midfielder's contract with the reigning Premier League champions is currently set to expire in 2025 and, as such, the Belgian is believed to be seriously considering the possibility of an exit from the Citizens. 

The interest is said to go both ways, with it suggested that the SPL's sporting director, Michael Emenalo, is eager to sign the former VfL Wolfsburg star.

The Saudi top flight previously attempted to acquire the Belgian's services, having reportedly offered him a huge annual salary of €70 million (R1.4 billion) just last year. 

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De Bruyne rejected the bid at the time, opting to stay at the Citizens instead, but it is believed a similar offer could be forthcoming in the next few weeks.

However, it has been claimed that the organisation's sporting director has maintained contact with the former Werder Bremen playmaker in the months since. 

Emenalo, a former Chelsea director of football, was involved in one of De Bruyne's past moves, having helped orchestrate the player's blockbuster move from KRC Genk to the Blues in 2015. 

The Belgian missed a considerable portion of this season after picking up a hamstring injury in August, but returned to action in January and is currently helping his side compete to get their hands on a fourth consecutive EPL title. 

The 32-year-old has made 21 appearances