Manchester City aware of possible transfer ‘change of mind’ concerning 373-appearance star

Premier League champions Manchester City are aware of the possibility of a ‘change of mind’ around Kevin De Bruyne and an exit from the Etihad Stadium this summer.

The veteran midfielder, who remains at the very peak of his powers in regards to goal contributions this season, is rapidly approaching the final year of his current contract at Manchester City.

As such, it will come as no surprise to many to understand of growing interest from the Middle-East, as Saudi Arabian football bosses look to invest significantly during another summer market that will see major names move to the Saudi Pro League.

Kevin De Bruyne is understood to be one of the names high up on their transfer wish-list, and despite rejecting approaches from the nation during the last summer transfer window, a new report points towards some element of concern for Manchester City supporters.

According to the information of The Athletic, while Kevin De Bruyne ‘rejected overtures’ from the Saudi Pro League last summer, Manchester City are ‘aware that things could change’ this summer and as such are ‘making contingency plans’.

It is further detailed that the Pro League’s sporting director, Michael Emenalo has maintained a ‘good relationship’ with De Bruyne over the years and is spearheading the league’s push, despite no particular club currently standing out as a leading candidate for his signature.

With regards to clubs that could emerge as contenders from Saudi Arabia however, The Athletic reveal that second-tier Al Qadsiah could be interested if they are promoted to the top division as expected.

Although, the top four clubs in Saudi Arabia made up of Al Hilal, Al Ahli, Al Ittihad and Al Nassr, each owned by the Public Investment Fund — are likely to be deemed more suitable destinations for Kevin De Bruyne, should he consider the potential move.

Manchester City have already dealt successfully with Saudi Arabian football bosses in recent months, having seen two members of their Treble-winning squad join the expanding project in the Middle-East.

Riyad Mahrez brought an end to his illustrious time in England with Manchester City and Leicester by joining Al-Ahli, while Spanish international Aymeric Laporte linked-up with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr.

The transfers of both players from the Premier League to the Saudi Pro League saw Manchester City claim a combined transfer fee in the region of £54 million, while both players will have seen their annual salaries increase substantially.