In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the soccer world, Major League Soccer (MLS) side Chicago Fire have reportedly made an approach to sign Belgian superstar Kevin De Bruyne on a free transfer, according to transfer market insider Fabrizio Romano. The 33-year-old midfielder, widely regarded as one of the greatest playmakers of his generation, is set to leave Manchester City at the end of the 2024-25 season when his contract expires, marking the end of a trophy-laden decade with the English Premier League giants.
De Bruyne, who announced his departure from Manchester City on April 4, 2025, has been a cornerstone of the club’s unprecedented success since joining from Wolfsburg in 2015 for £54.5 million. Over his 10-year tenure, the Belgian captain helped City secure six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, and the 2023 UEFA Champions League as part of a historic treble-winning campaign. With 106 goals and 187 goal contributions in 413 appearances, De Bruyne’s legacy at the Etihad Stadium is cemented, with manager Pep Guardiola hailing him as “one of the greatest midfielders to ever play in this country.”
However, recent injuries, including a hamstring surgery in 2023-24 and an abdomen issue in 2024, have limited De Bruyne’s playing time, with only 19 starts in 31 appearances this season. With Manchester City opting not to renew his contract, De Bruyne is now a free agent-in-waiting, attracting interest from clubs across the globe, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and multiple MLS franchises.
The Chicago Fire, a founding MLS club established in 1997, have emerged as a surprise contender for De Bruyne’s signature. According to Romano, the Fire have presented a “specific project” to lure the Belgian to Soldier Field, aiming to make him the centerpiece of their rebuilding efforts. The club currently has an open Designated Player slot, alongside Ivorian winger Jonathan Bamba and former Genk striker Hugo Cuypers, which could facilitate a high-profile signing like De Bruyne. However, a significant hurdle remains: Inter Miami currently hold De Bruyne’s MLS discovery rights, meaning Chicago would need to negotiate with Miami to secure the ability to sign him.
Inter Miami, home to global icon Lionel Messi and other stars like Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, have been heavily linked with De Bruyne, raising the possibility of a blockbuster partnership with Messi. Yet, Miami’s financial constraints, with all three Designated Player slots occupied, could complicate their pursuit, potentially opening the door for Chicago. Other MLS clubs, including New York City FC (a sister club to Manchester City), LA Galaxy, and LAFC, have also been mentioned as potential destinations, but Chicago’s proactive approach has put them in pole position for now.
The Fire’s interest in De Bruyne comes at a time when the club is looking to revitalize its fortunes. Despite a storied history, including an MLS Cup win in 1998, Chicago has struggled in recent years, with high-profile Designated Players like Bastian Schweinsteiger and Xherdan Shaqiri failing to deliver consistent success. Signing De Bruyne, a three-time Premier League Playmaker of the Season and two-time PFA Players’ Player of the Year, would be a statement of intent and could elevate the club’s profile both on and off the pitch.
De Bruyne, who has 109 caps and 30 goals for Belgium, has remained open about his future, previously stating in June 2024, “At my age, you have to be open. You’re talking about incredible amounts of money in what may be the end of my career. Sometimes you have to think about that.” While Saudi Pro League clubs are expected to offer lucrative deals, a move to the MLS could appeal to De Bruyne and his family, with the midfielder noting that “Manchester” will forever be in their hearts after a decade in the city.