According to The Athletic, the new favorite to sign Kevin De Bruyne this summer, when his contract with Manchester City expires, is the MLS club Chicago Fire. One of the league`s most improved teams under head coach Gregg Berhalter, the Fire are looking to attract a major star and could secure a key figure in De Bruyne.
The Belgian is set to leave Manchester City, having previously announced this season would be his last at the club. As a crucial player for City`s success, his services would be desired by any team worldwide after the season ends. Although his discovery rights transferred to Inter Miami, the Herons already having three designated players makes his move there unlikely.
This situation has given Chicago Fire priority in negotiations with De Bruyne, as they hope to add him to their roster. D.C. United and New York City FC are other MLS teams reportedly showing interest, though D.C. might be more focused on signing Paul Pogba at this stage.
Discovery rights grant the Fire the ability to negotiate exclusively with De Bruyne, but this does not guarantee he will definitely join MLS. Interest from Saudi Arabian teams is reported, and there`s always the possibility he could end up at another Premier League team.
Despite sitting in 11th place in the Eastern Conference, the Fire are only two points away from a playoff spot. Their star striker, Hugo Cuypers, leads the MLS Golden Boot race with seven goals in 10 matches. Under Berhalter, this team is on the rise, and adding De Bruyne could elevate them into MLS Cup contention.
