The 32-year-old midfielder, whose current deal runs until next season, said he is open to offers from Saudi Arabia due to the “incredible amounts of money” on offer.
In an interview with Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws, De Bruyne explained that at this stage of his career, he must consider all options, including a potential switch to the Middle East. His wife, Michele Lacroix, has given her approval for the move, describing it as an “exotic adventure.”
De Bruyne, who earns £300,000 a week at City, admitted that such a move could be financially advantageous.
“I still have one year left on my contract, so I have to think about what could happen,” De Bruyne said.
“My eldest is now eight years old and knows nothing but England. He also asks how long I will play for City. Once the moment comes, we will have to deal with it in a certain way.
“At my age you have to be open to everything. You’re talking about incredible amounts of money in what may be the end of my career. Sometimes you have to think about that.”
De Bruyne added: “If I play there for two years, I will be able to earn an incredible amount of money. Before that I had to play football for 15 years. I may not even reach that amount yet.
“Then you have to think about what that could mean next. But at the moment I haven’t had to think about that yet”
The Saudi Pro League has shown significant interest in De Bruyne, with officials reportedly stepping up their efforts to lure him away from the Premier League champions.
Michael Emenalo, sports director of the Pro League, who signed De Bruyne for Chelsea in 2012, has been closely monitoring his situation.
De Bruyne’s potential move follows former teammates Riyad Mahrez and Aymeric Laporte, who have already joined clubs in Saudi Arabia. There is also reported interest in City’s goalkeeper Ederson from the Saudi league this summer.
The Saudi Public Investment Fund, which owns major stakes in Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr, and Al-Hilal, is expected to be involved in any possible deal for De Bruyne.
Source:
HLN
