Napoli ‘started De Bruyne talks 3 months ago’ – before Manchester City decision

“The De Bruyne operation started three months ago,” revealed President De Laurentiis during an event to announce Napoli’s pre-season training camp.

“However, it is not the most important deal of my career. De Bruyne is world class, even if his age is getting along a bit.

“He is part of a team that will need to be strengthened, because we will be participating in four competitions. There will be many new additions, we like to work well.”

Napoli a new start for De Bruyne

De Bruyne had been expected to undergo his medical this week, but he decided to wait until after completing international duty with Belgium first.

The midfielder turns 34 later this month and had been at Manchester City since 2015, but in early April the club announced it was not going to offer him a new contract.

The player confessed he was “a bit surprised” at being told he was no longer part of their plans and would not even be given the opportunity to negotiate a lower salary.

“Honestly, I still think I can perform at this level like I’m showing, but I understand clubs have to make decisions,” said De Bruyne in April.

“I feel like I still have a lot to give. Obviously I know I’m not 25 anymore, but I still feel like I can do my job.”