San Diego FC are reportedly firmly at the head of the queue to sign Manchester City attacker Kevin De Bruyne this summer.
The 33-year-old's contract at the Etihad Stadium is due to expire at the end of June, and he is set to leave the reigning Premier League champions after 10 years of excellent service.
De Bruyne has made 26 appearances for Man City this season, but he has only managed three goals and six assists, and head coach Pep Guardiola admitted at the end of last week that the attacker no longer has the physicality to be a consistent starter.
The Belgian was an unused substitute against Newcastle United in the Premier League last weekend ahead of the Champions League knockout round playoff second leg against Real Madrid, but he was again not used against the European champions.
"No [injury]. Decisions. My decision," Guardiola told reporters when asked about De Bruyne being left out of the side. "He play in Madrid at home. Of course he can play [the big games].
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De Bruyne is set to leave Man City this summer
"My relation with Kevin is exceptional. I cannot thank enough what he's done for me, to the team and everyone. It's just a decision. Normally I don't speak with the players. Not just with Kevin. Anyone, why they play. They don't ask me the reason why when I decide to let them play in the beginning or during the game.
"It's just a decision. What I have seen for many reasons, a few reasons. So it's never personal, never. Also Jeremy [Doku] didn't play. And the last game he played I think was in Ipswich Town, played unbelievable. And the game after in the 17th minute he was injured.
"But maybe for the demanding, for the way now we need to play, because for the absence of strength that we have, and physicality and many things, we need to gain more control, not more up and down. Don't tell me why. So it's not personal. I decide the decisions and that's all. So no more than that."
According to TBR Football, San Diego FC are progressing when it comes to contract discussions with De Bruyne, and the newly-formed MLS outfit are confident of soon securing a deal.
The report claims that there remains firm interest from the Saudi Pro League, but De Bruyne is favouring a move to North America.
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Who are San Diego FC?
San Diego FC were officially formed on May 18, 2023, and they are preparing for their inaugural season in the MLS.
Mikey Varas's side will begin their campaign against LA Galaxy on Sunday, and an impressive squad has been assembled, with Hirving Lozano, Paddy McNair and Luca de la Torre among their recognisable players.
San Diego FC have left one of their three Designated Player slots available and allegedly view De Bruyne as their leading target.
Matt Law
