Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City. News Images

Could Kevin De Bruyne end up with this English club after Man City exit?

By Matt Evans | Last updated Apr 28, 2025 9:14 AM ET

In a move few anticipated, Kevin De Bruyne — widely regarded as the heartbeat of Manchester City’s golden era — has been linked with a sensational switch to a Premier League rival.

The Belgian midfielder has announced that he will leave City at the end of the 2024–25 season, and while the expectation had long been that his next chapter would unfold in the United States or Saudi Arabia, reports now suggest that Aston Villa, led by Unai Emery, are exploring a shock move for the 33-year-old.

De Bruyne’s impact at Manchester City has been nothing short of iconic. Since arriving from Wolfsburg in 2015, he has tallied over 100 goals and nearly 180 assists across more than 400 appearances, collecting six Premier League titles, a Champions League title and a host of domestic trophies.

Even amid recent injury setbacks, the midfielder has continued to display his enduring quality.

Rumors of a potential exit have circulated for some time, with many speculating that he would move abroad. MLS expansion team San Diego FC, who joined the league in 2025, was reportedly in advanced talks with De Bruyne’s camp but has since distanced itself from the negotiations.

Other American clubs — including Inter Miami, Chicago Fire, NYCFC and D.C. United — are also reportedly in the frame.

Saudi Pro League clubs remain interested as well, though it’s believed it would take a substantial financial offer to tempt De Bruyne to the Gulf region.

Against that backdrop, Aston Villa’s emergence as a credible contender has come as a major surprise. According to reports, internal discussions have taken place at Villa Park, with the De Bruyne's reported desire to remain in the UK for family reasons adding weight to the possibility.

Under Emery, Villa has grown into one of the Premier League’s most dynamic sides. Its run to the Champions League quarter-finals this season, which included a spirited battle against Paris Saint-Germain, has highlighted its growing European credentials. The club has also shown increasing ambition in the transfer market.

A signing of De Bruyne’s stature would not only enhance Villa’s squad but signal its arrival as a serious force both domestically and on the continent. Whether the move comes to fruition remains uncertain, but the mere prospect of De Bruyne in claret and blue adds a compelling subplot to the summer transfer window.

Matt Evans

Matt Evans is a sports journalist from the United Kingdom, now based in Paris, France. He has covered various sports including basketball, soccer, boxing, MMA, and motorsports. Over the past decade, Matt has focused heavily on the NBA and has worked with many established outlets on a variety of content

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