Kevin De Bruyne has reached an agreement with Al-Ittihad, and the Saudi club is optimistic about signing Ederson.

Kevin De Bruyne, the talented Belgian midfielder, has reportedly reached an agreement with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad. The Mirror suggests that De Bruyne could be on his way to Saudi Arabia, but Manchester City, led by manager Pep Guardiola, are determined to keep hold of their star player.

While it remains uncertain whether De Bruyne would be willing to leave before his contract expires in 2025, City will be desperate to retain their talisman. Previous reports have indicated that De Bruyne could potentially finish his career in Manchester. In February, The Athletic reported that De Bruyne planned to sign a new contract with City and retire at the Etihad Stadium around the age of 35.

However, there have been hints that the player may have had a change of heart in recent months. In May, it was revealed that De Bruyne’s representatives had held talks with new MLS franchise San Diego FC. Shortly after, details of preliminary discussions regarding a potential move to Saudi Arabia emerged.

In other news, Al-Ittihad is making moves to sign Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson. The Saudi Pro League club is ready to test City’s resolve as they attempt to lure the Brazilian shot-stopper to Saudi Arabia. Al-Nassr had initially been considered favorites to secure Ederson’s signature, but it is Al-Ittihad who have made contact with City, according to the Mail.

Interest in Ederson from the Saudi Pro League has been intense in recent months. Al-Nassr’s offer of £25 million fell well below City’s valuation, but Al-Ittihad has been encouraged enough to open dialogue with the Premier League champions. Ederson, valued at around £50 million, would be a major coup for the Saudi Pro League.

Meanwhile, Barcelona is reportedly considering a surprise move for former Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante. Kante, who joined Al-Ittihad last summer, impressed for France during Euro 2024. Barcelona’s new head coach, Hansi Flick, is said to be looking to strengthen his midfield options, but only if they can secure the player at a reduced price.

Flick believes that Kante, a two-time Premier League winner and World Cup champion, would be the ideal solution to bolster Barcelona’s defensive midfield. A loan signing is the preferred option for the Spanish club. Barcelona had been consistently linked with Kante during his time at Chelsea but failed to make a move for him last summer when he made the switch to the Saudi Pro League.

Reports suggest that Al-Ittihad is unwilling to part ways with the 33-year-old this summer. The club has already rejected an approach from West Ham United, who were interested in signing Kante on a permanent deal.