Aston Villa plot shock Kevin De Bruyne transfer swoop after private discussions

Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne leaves the pitch after the English Premier League soccer match between Manchester City and Manchester United in Manchester, England, Sunday, April 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson) (Image: AP)

Aston Villa are reportedly considering an audacious move for Kevin De Bruyne, following confirmation that the Manchester City star will be departing the Premier League champions when his contract ends this summer.

De Bruyne, 33, has been a key figure in City’s success over the past decade, contributing to six league titles and Champions League triumph. However, the Belgian international was recently informed that he would not be offered a new contract by the club’s management, following City’s underwhelming 2024-25 season.

The midfielder has already been associated with potential transfers to Saudi Arabia and the MLS. Yet, Aston Villa could offer him an opportunity to extend his Premier League career.

This is according to a recent report from Sky Sports, who suggests that the Midlands club have privately conducted ‘internal discussions’ regarding a possible bid for the player.

Securing De Bruyne would be a significant achievement for Villa, who are aiming for Champions League qualification for the second consecutive season under the successful leadership of Unai Emery.

While competition for De Bruyne’s signature is expected to be intense this summer, the experienced midfielder has hinted at his willingness to stay in the Premier League, not ruling out the possibility of joining a domestic competitor.

“It came as a bit of a shock. I’m open for anything (including staying in the Premier League),” De Bruyne revealed to journalists after City’s 2-0 victory over Everton at the weekend.

“I have to look at the whole picture, sporting, the family, everything together, what makes the most sense for my family. I don’t know what it is. It depends on when you speak to people about projects and things.”

De Bruyne hinted that he was not in agreement with City’s decision to part ways, asserting that he still ‘feels like he can do a good job’ for the Premier League champions.

He added: “It was a very brief meeting. I don’t really feel like I want to share what was said because it was basically more business wise for them.

“They just made the decision based on that. It was not really a long conversation. It was just what they told me and I have to accept the situation even though I feel like I can still do a good job, that’s it.”