Kevin De Bruyne to follow in Lionel Messi's footsteps? Man City superstar could snub Saudi interest in favor of blockbuster MLS transfer

According to The Athletic, the Manchester City maestro is starting to think about what his future may entail when his contract expires in 2025 at the Etihad. The Manchester-based club have notably been reluctant to hand-out contract extensions to their aging players, with an example being Ilkay Gundogan leaving for Barcelona on a free transfer.

The report adds that City would negate all emotional attachment to their superstar if an offer in the range of $115m (£90m) arrived from Saudi Arabia amid interest. However, De Bruyne himself has made his feelings clear on a potential transfer to the Middle East: he would rather move to MLS.

The attacking midfielder still believes, however, that he has plenty left to give at the highest level in the game. However, at 32-years-old, he is starting to prioritize what would be best for his family too, and the thought of retiring in the United States is a much more appealing thought for the Belgian.

With 18-months left on his current deal at the Etihad, the Cityzens have yet to make any contact with him regarding a new deal.

De Bruyne could be inspired by Lionel Messi's current role in MLS with Inter Miami. The Argentine superstar has taken center-stage with the league, and the Herons. If the Man City superstar were to land Stateside, he could look to pursue a similar contract to that of Messi's where he will earn nearly $150m over two years.

The Belgian midfielder and the Cityzens return to the pitch this Wednesday in an FA Cup clash against Premier League strugglers Luton Town. Then, at the weekend, it's the Manchester Derby as City host United in a Premier League contest.