Real Madrid deal for Man City maestro in final stages despite Barcelona interference; could close for €65-75 million

Real Madrid is closing in on a deal for Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, after weeks of intense negotiations. Spanish journalist Sergio Valentin reports that De Bruyne has agreed to personal terms with the Spanish giants, with the remaining hurdle being Manchester City's search for a replacement before approving the transfer.

De Bruyne's decision to join Real Madrid was made early on, despite interest from clubs such as Barcelona, PSG, and Bayern Munich. The midfielder has consistently expressed his desire to move to Los Blancos if he leaves City this summer. If the transfer is completed, De Bruyne is expected to sign a four-year contract at the Santiago Bernabeu until after the 2030 World Cup, which will be hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

The report suggests that Real Madrid's influential manager, Jose Mourinho, played a crucial role in speeding up the negotiations. Following Mourinho's arrival, Real Madrid intensified their pursuit of De Bruyne, recognizing him as the perfect midfielder to spearhead the club's forthcoming sporting project. The transfer now hinges on Manchester City's ability to secure a replacement.

City's preferred option is Moroccan youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi, a standout performer for Lille during the 2026 World Cup who has caught the eye of City manager Enzo Maresca as the long-term successor to De Bruyne in the midfield. Manchester City is reluctant to allow De Bruyne to leave until Bouaddi is secured. Despite Barcelona expressing interest, their involvement has proven unsuccessful, as De Bruyne remains resolute in his decision to join Real Madrid.

With the personal terms settled, attention has now shifted towards the transfer fee. According to the journalist, Real Madrid anticipates the agreement to range between €65 million and €75 million, an amount the club is prepared to pay for one of Europe's top midfielders. Confidence is growing within the Valdebebas camp, as Real Madrid is confident in the completion of the deal with De Bruyne, who remains fully committed to joining the Spanish club, and Manchester City's efforts to sign Bouaddi.

Should the final piece fall into place over the coming days, De Bruyne will likely become Real Madrid's newest signing.