Last summer, Manchester City managed to retain their star player, Kevin De Bruyne, despite speculation surrounding a potential departure. However, it seems that the 33-year-old Belgian is nearing the end of his career with the English club, as all indications point to him planning a move to the United States in 2025, marking the final stage of his career before retirement.
The loss of De Bruyne would be a major blow for Pep Guardiola, who has already started looking for a suitable replacement. Despite the challenge, Guardiola appears to have his sights set on a player from Real Madrid as a potential successor to the Belgian.
According to information from the Spanish newspaper “El Nacional”, Guardiola’s top priority is to sign Jude Bellingham, the Real Madrid star, to fill the void left by De Bruyne in Manchester City’s midfield. Bellingham is considered the “impossible dream” for the English club, fully aware that the player has no intention of leaving the Santiago Bernabéu at present. However, Manchester City may still consider making a move this summer if the circumstances are right.
Guardiola has developed a particular focus on Real Madrid in recent seasons. He has witnessed how the Spanish giants possess an exceptional understanding of the game, particularly in the Champions League, having eliminated City twice in the past three years. Even in the transfer market, Real Madrid have thwarted City’s ambitions, as was the case with Bellingham, who chose the Bernabéu over a more attractive offer from Manchester City.
Additionally, last summer, Guardiola closely followed the situation of Rodrygo, who seemed to be on the verge of joining Manchester City. The Brazilian hinted that a move to the Citizens could be a good option, but the talks ultimately broke down, leaving Guardiola to abandon that pursuit.
The newspaper concludes that Guardiola made a bold move by offering Florentino Pérez a deal to swap Kevin De Bruyne for Bellingham, along with a financial sum. However, Pérez rejected the proposal, leaving the Spanish coach shocked by the decision.