MLS
Kevin De Bruyne “interested” in San Diego FC: when could he move to MLS?
The Manchester City midfielder has spoken to the newest MLS franchise, who will join the league in 2025.
San Diego FC, scheduled to enter MLS as an expansion team in 2025, continue to think big. Although they have yet to get any “superstar” signings over the line, they have been heavily linked with moves for former Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos and Mexico winger Chucky Lozano. And it has now been revealed they have held talks with Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne over a sensational move to California.
When does De Bruyne’s contract with Manchester City expire?
According to The Athletic, San Diego bosses have spoken to the Belgian about a potential move. De Bruyne’s contract with City expires in the summer of 2025 and he has yet to make up his mind about his future, whether it be extend his contract and end his career in England, or have one last adventure elsewhere.
Sources close to the midfielder confirmed he had “had one conversation” with the league’s newest franchise, with De Bruyne rating San Diego as one of the cities he would like to live in if he were to move to the United States. However, the insider also stressed that no deal was likely to be done any time soon.
The former Chelsea man will turn 33 at the end of June and has previously spoken of his desire to extend his deal with City and retire there at the age of 35. San Diego, though, will be hoping to convince him otherwise.
San Diego FC: the Real Madrid of MLS?
Since their foundation in May 2023, San Diego FC have set their sights high when it comes to attracting players to the team. Dozens of players have been linked with the Californians, who have been mooted as the “Real Madrid of MLS,” before they have even kicked a ball.
In addition to Ramos and Lozano, current Madrid defender Nacho and former goalkeeper Keylor Navas have also been mentioned as possible signings for their first season in the league.
Club bosses say they just want the team to be the “San Diego of San Diego,” although CEO Tom Penn has stated they are planning on making a splash in the transfer market. “We want talent. We want talent that is starting to emerge, who can make an impact now and in the future. They have to be young, improving players, or players already in their prime. Big signings? Stay tuned because we have a big announcement to make”.