MLS side in talks to snatch Kevin De Bruyne for free after Neymar’s failed move – But it’s not Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez’s Inter Miami

As Kevin De Bruyne prepares to close the curtain on a decade of brilliance at Manchester City, speculation is mounting over his next destination. Many assumed that if he were to land in the MLS, it would be under the palm trees of Florida alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. But the first serious move for the Belgian maestro has come from elsewhere — not Miami, and not the club most would expect.

With De Bruyne’s contract set to expire in June 2025, and the 33-year-old midfielder already declaring that his time at City is coming to an end, the race is officially on. The pursuit now includes an MLS side quietly laying groundwork for a major coup, positioning itself to lure one of the greatest midfielders of his generation to North America.

The Belgian veteran confirmed his impending exit from City in an emotional message to fans earlier this month. After years of dominance in England and Europe, the Belgian international is ready for a new challenge.

The midfielder also revealed that he’s taking time before deciding on his next step. “It’s very hard because the decision of leaving has not been long so nothing can be decided in a week. I’ve not even seen my family since the announcement,” he added.

Bold move from an unexpected MLS suitor

While many expected Inter Miami to lead the charge, another MLS club has jumped ahead, especially after its failed negotiations involving Neymar. According to a Fabrizio Romano exclusive, Chicago Fire has become the first team to make a concrete approach to sign De Bruyne on a free transfer.

The Fire, managed by former USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter, is currently building toward a more ambitious identity in the United States. Despite sitting ninth in the Eastern Conference, they have shown a willingness to chase elite talent. The club had previously attempted to lure Neymar to the United States but fell short. Now, they’ve turned their attention to De Bruyne — and their offer is real.

Designated star in the windy city?

Should the 33-year-old agree to terms, he would need to be signed as a Designated Player — a status created when David Beckham joined LA Galaxy in 2007 and often referred to as the “Beckham Rule.” That label allows clubs to pay marquee players salaries above the MLS cap, and De Bruyne would join Hugo Cuypers and Jonathan Bamba as one of the club’s top-earning stars.

However, De Bruyne is not without options. Saudi Pro League giants like Al-Nassr, reportedly encouraged by Cristiano Ronaldo, are also pushing for his signature. European sides, including former club Wolfsburg, have expressed interest too. Still, the most advanced talks appear to be in MLS.

While the Herons and San Diego FC had been linked to the playmaker, the former holds priority rights within the league but has yet to make a serious move. San Diego, meanwhile, has withdrawn from the race.