Kevin De Bruyne insists he “hasn’t spoken to anyone” regarding a summer move away from Manchester City despite speculation linking him with teams in Saudi Arabia.
The Belgium midfielder is preparing for his team’s Euro 2024 round of 16 tie against France this afternoon but was asked about his future in an interview with HNL.
De Bruyne still has 12 months left on his contract at the Etihad and believes he will be returning for pre-season training after the Euros.
He said: “Yes [I’ll stay at City]. I’ve read a lot of headlines about a transfer, but I haven’t spoken to anyone.
“I signed my contract at the right time. If there is a good offer and you tell Pep [Guardiola] that you want to leave, that is possible. This may be different at other clubs. But I have never indicated that I want to leave.
“I hope I can last a few more years. Everyone knows I’m under contract at City for another year. I assume there will be talks with City in the next few months.
“If not, I will have to look for something else. But it’s hard to say what will happen. My summer will be very quiet. I will enjoy my holidays. And then I will return to City.”
Thank you for the bday wishes. Chapter 33 underway 👍 pic.twitter.com/3FAEsDUY1v
— Kevin De Bruyne (@KevinDeBruyne) June 28, 2024
The 33-year-old admitted, however, that he would be forced to consider his position if an “absurd” offer came in for him, adding: “I have more than enough money. But if an absurd amount comes… That is also for my family, my relatives, my grandchildren, my great-grandchildren and my friends.”
What does his international future look like?
De Bruyne missed five months of the season in 2023-24 after suffering a hamstring injury at Burnley on the opening day.
He returned to deliver four goals and 10 assists as City won the Premier League for the fourth time on the trot.
The former Wolfsburg and Chelsea star is hoping to contribute for both club and country again next season, denying suggestions the European Championship could be his last in a Belgium shirt.
“During international breaks at City we always get seven to 10 days off. That would be welcome for my family,” he said. “But I don’t have 10 more years left as a footballer. I have also been absent from the national team many times [due to injuries].
“If I continue to feel good, I will probably be available. I just don’t know what it will be like next year. A crazy season is coming for City, with even more matches. It must remain physically and mentally feasible.”
