Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne could be in line for a shock return to Chelsea.
De Bruyne left Chelsea permanently in 2014, signing for Wolfsburg before eventually going on to join City.
At the Etihad, the midfielder developed into one of the best players in the world, but he is now set leave Pep Guardiola’s side this summer when his contract expires.
Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho was impressed with De Bruyne during their time together at Stamford Bridge, but that did not stop the Portuguese from sanctioning an exit.
America move more likely than Chelsea for Kevin De Bruyne
Chelsea’s current squad lacks experience, but it looks like they are trying to correct that.
Chelsea were interested in Virgil van Dijk before he signed a new contract at Liverpool, while De Bruyne now appears to be on their radar.
According to journalist Simon Phillips, Chelsea are discussing a potential move for De Bruyne. However, once source has told him that the Belgian is heading to the United States.
On his Substack Si Phillips Talks Chelsea, Phillips wrote: “We have heard that Chelsea are actually discussing a move for Kevin De Bruyne just today, but one source believes he is America bound. It would be VERY tough to do for Chelsea.”
De Bruyne has not been at his best this season, but the Belgium international is 33 now and did pick up a hamstring injury earlier in the campaign.
He has still managed to register 10 goal contributions in 23 Premier League outings, which is not bad. Given that and his overall ability, on top of the experience that he would bring to Enzo Maresca‘s squad, Chelsea should not say no to signing De Bruyne if the opportunity presents itself.
What Kevin De Bruyne has said about his situation
For De Bruyne, City’s decision not to offer him a new contract was a bit of a shock.
“I have not had any offer the whole year, they just took a decision,” he was recently quoted as saying by Sky Sports. “Obviously, I was a bit surprised but I just have to accept it. Honestly I still think I can perform at this level like I’m showing but I understand clubs have to make decisions.
“Maybe if the team didn’t struggle and I came back like I did this year and bedded in like normal then maybe they take another decision.”
Again, though, if the playmaker is no longer wanted at the Etihad, then he would be a welcome addition at Stamford Bridge.
De Bruyne is the perfect player to help Chelsea break down low blocks, something they have had trouble doing this season.
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