Why Al-Ittihad have pulled out of transfer for Kevin De Bruyne after previously agreeing personal terms with Man City star - explained

The 33-year-old playmaker has entered the final 12 months of his contract at the Etihad Stadium. With no extension agreed as yet, the Belgium international has attracted interest from teams in the big-spending Saudi Pro League.

Al-Ittihad – who already have Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Fabinho on their books – were keen on acquiring modern day great De Bruyne. They had a lucrative offer on the table that was deemed acceptable by the six-time Premier League title winner.

Transfer expert Rudy Galetti is, however, claiming that Al-Ittihad are walking away after being put off by City’s demands when it comes to a fee. A £25 million ($32m) offer is said to have been knocked back, with previous reports suggesting that the Blues are holding out for closer to £50m ($64m).

With Houssem Aouar already being snapped up, Al-Ittihad believe they have enough quality midfield options to cope for now. De Bruyne may come back onto their recruitment radar in 2025 if he continues to head towards free agency.