Lionel Messi's Inter Miami face Kevin De Bruyne challenge despite 'agreement' (2025)

Kevin De Bruyne is on the lookout for a new club this summer and MLS side Inter Miami have emerged as favourites to add them to their superstar roster - but David Beckham's club could have a few problems in their bid to sign him

Inter Miami are keen to strike a deal for Kevin De Bruyne but would have to sign him to a deal "far below market value" because of their existing rosters of superstars like Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets. De Bruyne is set to leave Manchester City on a free transfer this summer after 10 seasons at the Etihad, with a host of teams interested.

The MLS looks to be the most likely destination for the Belgian playmaker, with Inter Miami leading the race along with Chicago Fire, New York City FC and D.C United.

Should De Bruyne sign for Miami, there would be "angst" among their rivals given he would link up with an already impressive squad of players spearheaded by Messi, according to the Athletic.

The report claims Miami could potentially have their hands tied over the deal because all of their designated player slots have already been taken up by Messi, Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez.

The situation has now "opened a window for additional suitors" because Miami won't be able to pay De Bruyne as much as their rivals - who will have more empty slots to dedicate to the Belgium international.

A possible workaround could see Inter Miami sign De Bruyne as a Targeted Allocation Money (TAM) player, as LA Galaxy did when they snapped up Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Making a TAM signing involves clubs using allocated money to pay for a player's salary cap charge and then marking him down as a designated player the following season - as Los Angeles FC did with Gareth Bale. The report goes on to say that Chicago would be a "good fit" for De Bruyne as they look to become a force under former USA men's boss Gregg Berhalter.

Meanwhile, New York City have room on their roster and have a history of bringing in big names, but the report says their interest may be affected by City's relationship with the team as its parent owner.

De Bruyne penned an emotional open letter to fans this month announcing his departure from City this summer

"Nothing about this is easy to write, but as football players, we all know this day eventually comes. That day is here, and you deserve to hear it from me first.

"Football led me to all of you - and to this city. Chasing this dream, not knowing this period would change my life. This city. This club. These people... gave me EVERYTHING. I had no choice but to give EVERYTHING back! And guess what - we won EVERYTHING.

"Whether we like it or not, it's time to say goodbye. Suri, Rome, Mason, Michele, and I are all grateful for what this place has meant to our family. "Manchester" will forever be on our kids' passports - and more importantly, in each of our hearts.

"This will always be our HOME. We cannot thank the city, club, staff, teammates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride. Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter. Let's enjoy these last moments together! Much love, KDB."

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.