Kevin De Bruyne has expressed his willingness to consider a transfer to the Saudi Pro League (SPL) due to the significant financial benefits associated with such a move to the Gulf nation.
The Manchester City midfielder, who has just one year remaining on his contract at the Etihad Stadium, has been the subject of speculation regarding a potential move to Saudi Arabia.
According to a source speaking to ESPN, De Bruyne’s representatives visited 10 Saudi clubs over a three-day period in May. The Belgian international has acknowledged that he finds the financial incentives offered in the country quite appealing.
In an interview with Belgian outlet HLN, De Bruyne stated, “At my age, one must remain open to all possibilities. The sums of money involved are truly remarkable, especially considering this stage of my career. It is something that one must consider. If I were to play there for two years, the financial rewards would be substantial. Prior to this, I had to dedicate 15 years to football to earn a similar amount. It is important to contemplate what this could mean for the future. However, I have not yet reached a decision on this matter.”
Having spent nine successful years at City, winning the Premier League title on six occasions, De Bruyne’s playing time was limited last season due to a hamstring injury that kept him out for the first five months of the campaign.
Now 32 years old, De Bruyne, who has also been linked with a move to Major League Soccer (MLS), believes it is time to start considering his next career move.