Insider Reports 'Issues' That Could Hinder Kevin De Bruyne Move to Chicago Fire FC, MLS

The MLS could see some remarkable growth in the coming years, especially with the Olympics coming to the United States in 2026.

The league could be in a healthy spot in terms of fandom come 2026, but the talent acquisition can continue to accelerate that growth.

Lionel Messi joining Inter Miami in 2023 certainly put the league under a microscope, and other key transfers have helped put the United States league on the map.

Chicago Fire is aiming to join the mix of landing a superstar talent, as Fabrizio Romana reported. Earlier this year, they were aiming to land Neymar, who eventually chose to join Santos FC, returning to his roots as a footballer.

A new name has emerged as a potential target for Chicago, however, as the club could be in the mix to land Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne.

De Bruyne has appeared in 279 matches for Manchester City, contributing 188 goals and assists, though it's clear the club is in need of change after a disappointing campaign.

Given De Bruyne's age and injury concerns, they are not extending his contract, allowing him to hit the open market.

Issues could hinder De Bruyne making Chicago, MLS move

ESPN's Rob Dawson recently explored De Bruyne's upcoming free transfer options, citing a few hurdles in Chicago landing the star talent.

The first issue? Finances. Inter Miami had to get creative to land Messi, and Chicago would have to do the same to land De Bruyne.

"...the view is that he would prefer to move to MLS over Saudi Arabia, as long as it's the right club and the financial details can be worked out," Dawson writes.

Miami has the discovery rights for De Bruyne, too, meaning Chicago would have to pay the club if they want to land the midfielder.

Even then, Chicago is competing with Saudia Arabia to land the 33-year-old talent, on top of other MLS clubs.

Reporting suggests D.C. United and New York City FC could also be in the mix to approach the Man City talent. Still, an MLS move would be considered a "step down" from other leagues in Europe that De Bruyne could join.

"One of the issues for both MLS and the SPL is that after a decade in the Premier League, both leagues would be viewed as a step down," Dawson writes.

There are levels to the MLS side bringing in De Bruyne, with added layers for Chicago to be the club of choice -- but the interest can't be denied.