Kevin De Bruyne Joins Napoli in Blockbuster Move After Manchester City Exit

Kevin De Bruyne is heading to Italy. The Belgian playmaker maestro has agreed to join Napoli on a two-year contract, with the option to extend for a third. The move brings to an end a remarkable nine-year stint at Manchester City, where he became one of the most influential players in Premier League history.

Despite winning six league titles and lifting the Champions League in 2023, City informed De Bruyne last month that his contract would not be renewed when it expires at the end of June. The news came as a surprise to many, especially considering the 32-year-old had publicly expressed his desire to stay at the club. Following that news, interest poured in from across the globe — MLS side Chicago Fire were particularly keen, while clubs from Germany and even other Premier League sides showed serious intent. But in the end, it’s Napoli who’ve won the race. 

Football insider Fabrizio Romano broke the news on X, writing, "Kevin De Bruyne to Napoli, here we go! Final green light arrives from Belgian star to join Italian champions. Two year deal + option agreed, medical and formal steps to follow for KDB to become Napoli player. Massive signing for Napoli." The deal had been in the works for over a month. Napoli made their first move in May, shortly after sealing the Serie A title and booking their place in next season’s Champions League. Talks progressed quickly, but De Bruyne decided to delay finalizing the transfer until after Belgium’s World Cup qualifiers. 

Now that those fixtures are out of the way, everything is moving fast. A medical is expected soon, with the final paperwork already being prepared. While De Bruyne's salary in Naples will be significantly less than what he earned at City — he was reportedly on €25 million per year in England — the package still reflects his star power. Napoli will pay him €6 million per season for the first two years, with a potential €5 million in year three if the option is triggered. In total, the deal is worth up to €17 million, excluding bonuses. 

It’s a big statement from Napoli. Landing one of the most decorated and respected midfielders in Europe, even on reduced wages, sends a clear message: they’re not just here to defend their title — they’re aiming to make waves in Europe too. And De Bruyne might not be the only big arrival. Napoli are reportedly close to securing a deal for Empoli’s highly-rated 20-year-old defender Luca Marianucci, as they continue strengthening for a demanding campaign ahead. 

For now though, the spotlight is firmly on De Bruyne. After dominating English football for nearly a decade, he's ready to bring his magic to Serie A. 

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