Napoli has started talks with Kevin De Bruyne about joining them when his contract with Manchester City ends this summer.

The Belgian midfielder will become a free agent, meaning he can leave City without a transfer fee. De Bruyne is 33 years old and has been a key player for the team.

Last month, De Bruyne said that Manchester City told him they would not extend his contract. The club’s top officials, including the director of football and the CEO, gave him the news.

According to The Times, Napoli has already contacted De Bruyne’s representatives to try to bring him to Italy this summer.

Napoli is currently leading Serie A and has secured a place in next season’s Champions League. They are also close to winning the league title.

Reports suggest that Napoli hopes De Bruyne’s strong friendship with Romelu Lukaku, his fellow Belgian teammate, could help influence his decision to join the club.

De Bruyne has said that he still wants to compete at the highest level and is thinking carefully about what is best for his career and family.

“I believe I can still play well at this level,” he said. “But I understand that clubs have to make choices.”

He also added, “I’m open to anything. I will look at the full picture, including football reasons and my family, and decide what makes the most sense.”

Sky Sports has also reported that Premier League team Aston Villa is interested in signing De Bruyne. Meanwhile, in the United States, MLS side Chicago Fire has the first chance to sign him if he moves there.

So far this season, De Bruyne has played 36 games for Manchester City. He has scored six goals and provided eight assists.

During his time at City, he has won many trophies, including six Premier League titles, a Champions League, and five League Cups.

Before leaving the club, De Bruyne might still add one more trophy. Manchester City will play Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final on May 17.