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Sources: Chicago Fire in chase to sign Kevin De Bruyne

Alex Calabrese

16 Apr 2025 — 2 min read

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The Chicago Fire are currently the frontrunners to sign Belgian superstar Kevin De Bruyne, sources told MIR97 Media. The Manchester City midfielder will become a free agent in the summer. Fabrizio Romano reported the interest this morning.

De Bruyne, 33, has been one of the most dominant players in the Premier League over the last decade. Sources indicated that his salary in MLS would exceed eight figures, and would make him the third-best paid player in the league after Lionel Messi and Lorenzo Insigne.

While initial talks have indeed begun, it is far from a done deal. Inter Miami has his discovery rights, as reported by Paul Tenorio of The Athletic, so if the Fire were to reach an agreement, they would need to acquire those in a trade with Miami.

The Fire is looking to make a big splash with their third Designated Player slot. The club made a very serious approach for Brazilian legend Neymar Jr. in January, and while a transfer didn’t materialize, their ambition has remained the same, and they are now looking to add one of the most decorated midfielders in Premier League history

De Bruyne is a five-time Premier League winner with Manchester City and helped the team win their first-ever Champions League triumph in 2023. Furthermore, he has a two time PFA Player of the Year and has participated in three World Cups. He is currently the captain of the Belgian national team and featured at the most recent European Championships in Germany.

De Bruyne has been extensively linked with a move to Major League Soccer ahead of his looming free agency. San Diego FC were initially thought to be the front runners, however, upon hearing his salary demands, reportedly withdrew from the race. While Inter Miami claimed his MLS discovery rights and are still interested in signing De Bruyne, sources say Joe Mansueto and the Fire would be the most willing and able to meet his salary demands, which would be roughly $12 million per year.

The Fire did not comment on a move when reached this morning.

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