The 33-year-old Belgian insists he still craves top-level football
Chequered Future for De Bruyne
Consequently, Europe’s elite are lining up to secure his signature on a free transfer
Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester City’s creative talisman, will depart the Etihad at season’s end.
Villa’s Stealthy Approach
According to Sky Sports, Aston Villa’s board recently convened to discuss a swoop for De Bruyne. Two days after City edged Villa 2–1, club chiefs held a closed-door meeting.
Moreover, Villa would pay no transfer fee, thanks to De Bruyne’s impending contract expiry. Their interest marks a bold statement from Unai Emery’s ambitious side.
Aston Villa have held internal discussions about a potential move for Kevin De Bruyne, Sky Sports News understands 🦁 pic.twitter.com/QjIn0Oox78
Since arriving from Wolfsburg in 2015 for €76 million, De Bruyne has:
Made 417 appearances
Scored 107 goals
Provided 177 assists
His trophy cabinet is equally impressive: six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three Community Shields, five League Cups, one Champions League, one UEFA Super Cup, and one FIFA Club World Cup. Furthermore, his influence has defined City’s golden era.
What De Bruyne Brings to Villa
If completed, this transfer would transform Villa’s midfield. De Bruyne’s vision and delivery remain world-class.
However, questions linger over age and fitness as he approaches his mid-thirties. Yet, his professionalism and hunger suggest he can still perform at the highest level.
Next Steps
Negotiations will now shift to personal terms and salary. Villa must also fend off interest from other European heavyweights. If talks progress smoothly, De Bruyne could arrive at Villa Park this summer, bringing unrivalled experience and creativity.