Al-Ittihad handed opportunity to complete Kevin De Bruyne swoop after latest contract update at Manchester City

Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ittihad have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Kevin De Bruyne after the midfielder confirmed Manchester City were yet to open talks with him over a new contract.

De Bruyne has endured an injury-plagued last couple of seasons, having made just 18 Premier League appearances last time out, although he produced an impressive 14 direct goal contributions (four goals and 10 assists).

The Belgian has also been in and out of the team this term due to a muscle problem that kept him out between late September and early November.

De Bruyne played the full 90 minutes of Man City’s 2-0 triumph away at Leicester City on Sunday—one of only five times he has completed a full game this season—at the end of which he revealed nothing was forthcoming regarding a new deal from his current employers.

While he remains one of the best players in the Premier League, the 33-year-old’s injury woes of late may have been one too many for City, who could be ready to part ways.

City’s loss could be Al-Ittihad’s gain after the Saudi side were linked with a move for De Bruyne during the last summer transfer window, albeit all to no avail.

Should De Bruyne end up leaving the Etihad next summer, a move to the Middle East could prove to be an attractive option given the financial muscle of the PIF-owned clubs, one of which is Al-Ittihad.

Having won 12 of their 13 league games, thanks to the heroics of Karim Benzema, Moussa Diaby and Houssem Aouar, amongst others, Laurent Blanc’s men currently sit top of the pile.

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Al-Ittihad are looking to reclaim their domestic crown from Al-Hilal, and the potential addition of De Bruyne, whether in January or next summer, could kickstart a dynasty.