Leicester City FC v Manchester City FC - Premier LeagueGetty Images Sport

Kevin De Bruyne responds to transfer speculation ahead of Man City contract expiry following 'uncomfortable couple of months'

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • De Bruyne in final six months of contract
  • Linked with move to Saudi Arabia and MLS
  • Belgian has struggled with injuries
Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The Belgian midfielder has been linked with a move away from the Etihad once his contract expires but is refusing to be drawn into any speculation - despite now being able to negotiate a deal with foreign clubs ahead of a summer switch. De Bruyne has had a torrid time with injuries in the previous 18 months, making just 31 appearances in the Premier League since the beginning of last season, and could look to move to a league less intense. He is just focusing on getting back to his best, for now.

  • Advertisement
  • Crystal Palace FC v Manchester City FC - Premier LeagueGetty Images Sport

    WHAT DE BRUYNE SAID

    When asked about his future, De Bruyne told reporters: "I don't care. I'm just trying to get back to my level.

    "I feel every week I'm getting better. I can play for 90 minutes now. It's been an uncomfortable couple of months with the injury."

  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    While once the best midfielder in the world and one of the best in Premier League history, De Bruyne is 33-years-old and unlikely to be able to perform at the peak of his powers for over 50 games a season. It is unclear where he sees his future after City but he may favour a switch to a league where the physical demands are less of an issue. A switch to Saudi Arabia has been mooted and he could follow other aging stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Neymar to the Middle East for a final, huge contract.

  • Manchester City FC v Everton FC - Premier LeagueGetty Images Sport

    WHAT NEXT FOR DE BRUYNE?

    De Bruyne will see out the final six months of his deal at City, hoping to help turn their disaster of a season around. After his contract expires, he will no doubt have plenty of suitors across Europe and the rest of the world and then he will have a decision to make.