Outgoing Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has rejected approaches from two Premier League clubs before reaching an agreement to join Italian side Napoli in the upcoming summer transfer window.
The 33-year-old Belgian international had earlier indicated his intention to leave Manchester City after the club failed to extend his contract. According to reports from talkSPORT, both Aston Villa and West Ham United made ambitious moves to secure De Bruyne's signature, but the midfielder had reservations about joining another English club.
Instead, De Bruyne appears to have chosen Napoli as his next destination. Last week, he reportedly gave his approval to join Antonio Conte's side after reaching an agreement in principle with the Italian club. The deal is said to be worth €17 million over three years.
During his illustrious career at Manchester City, De Bruyne has been one of the Premier League's most influential players, scoring over 100 goals and providing 177 assists – the second-highest in Premier League history. His departure marks the end of an era at the Etihad Stadium under Pep Guardiola.
The move to Napoli will see De Bruyne link up with Antonio Conte, who took over the Italian side after they claimed the Serie A championship. This transfer represents a significant coup for Napoli as they look to strengthen their squad for domestic and European competitions.
De Bruyne's decision to move to Italy rather than remain in the Premier League suggests his desire for a new challenge in the latter stages of his career, while also avoiding direct competition against the club where he cemented his legacy as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation.