Kevin De Bruyne is seeking to leave Manchester City ahead of the Club World Cup, while Manchester United is considering a swap deal involving Rasmus Hojlund.

In a dramatic turn of events, Kevin De Bruyne’s future at Manchester City appears to be hanging in the balance. The Belgian maestro, who has been a talisman for the Citizens, is reportedly eyeing an early exit from the club ahead of the upcoming Club World Cup, as revealed by the Daily Star.

De Bruyne, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season, has expressed his surprise at the lack of a new deal from City. With the club preparing for an extended campaign in the United States, starting June 14, the midfielder is said to be keen on departing before the tournament kicks off.

According to the report, “Kevin De Bruyne is expected to snub the Club World Cup following Manchester City’s decision to release him.” The 32-year-old revealed last week that City had informed him he was free to leave this summer, a decision that has reportedly left him frustrated and searching for a new club.

As Pep Guardiola’s squad gears up for the Club World Cup, De Bruyne is obliged to participate due to his contract running until the end of June. However, with the tournament concluding on July 13, there are provisions for clubs to extend player contracts by an additional two weeks. Despite this, De Bruyne is hesitant about taking part, prioritising his health and future move over the tournament.

In other transfer news, Rasmus Hojlund could be on the move back to Atalanta, with Manchester United reportedly considering a swap deal that would see Ademola Lookman head to Old Trafford. The Sun has reported that the Serie A side is keen to re-sign the Denmark international, who has struggled to find the net since his £72 million move from Atalanta last August.

Hojlund, who has only scored three Premier League goals this season, remains a fan favourite in Bergamo, and Atalanta are ready to make a move if United decide to cut their losses. Meanwhile, Lookman, who has enjoyed a successful stint in Italy, is eager to return to England, making this potential swap deal intriguing.

Finally, Arsenal are reportedly confident of securing the signing of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer, despite interest from Real Madrid. The Mirror has suggested that Mikel Arteta’s side is the frontrunner to land the Spain international, who turned down a move to Liverpool last season.

Arsenal’s long-term interest in Zubimendi could see them trigger his £52 million release clause, with the 26-year-old having impressed in La Liga and contributing to Spain’s success in the Euros. With new sporting director Andrea Berta aligned with Arteta’s vision, the Gunners are optimistic about bolstering their midfield with this potential signing.