De Bruyne could link-up with Messi as multiple MLS clubs consider January move

As it stands, De Bruyne can leave City on a free transfer at the end of the season.

But San Diego FC could test City's resolve to keep their serial-title winning midfielder by making an offer to release him from his contract six months early.

David Beckham's Inter Miami are also believed to be tracking De Bruyne's situation.

The Belgium international has been in and out of City's starting line-up this season due to injuries and non-selection by manager Pep Guardiola.

De Bruyne is understood to favour a move to MLS over the riches of the Saudi Pro League in the event of an exit from the Etihad Stadium.

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City are yet to show any indication that they want to extend the midfielder's contract.

Speaking about his future earlier this year, De Bruyne said: "It's hard to say now. We will be sitting around the table in the coming months.

"I signed my contract at the right time. If there is a good offer and you tell Pep [Guardiola] that you want to leave, that is possible.

"This may be different at other clubs. But I have never indicated that I want to leave.

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"I have more than enough money. But if an absurd amount comes, that is also for my family, my relatives, my grandchildren, my great-grandchildren and my friends."

The prospect of lining up alongside Messi and co would signal a statement of intent for ambitious Inter Miami, who are desperately searching for their first ever MLS title.

However, the south Florida side are likely to face stiff competition for the Belgian's signature from MLS' newest franchise.

San Diego FC will make their debut when the new season launches in February where they will showcase their impressive 35,000-seater stadium.

De Bruyne would provide a star-studded entrance to the league for the California-based side who are looking to make an immediate impact.

The franchise is owned by Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour who quickly installed former United States interim coach Mikey Varas as manager.

Ex-PSV Eindhoven and Napoli winger Hirving Lozano has signed a four-year deal ahead of San Diego's inaugural season.

Former Manchester United defender Paddy McNair will also line up for San Diego once his loan at West Brom comes to an end later this month.

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De Bruyne joined City in the summer of 2015 from German club Wolfsburg for a fee of £55m deal.

After an uneventful spell at Chelsea earlier in his career there was some scepticism over his Premier League credentials, but he's now a certified legend of Man City and the competition.

As well as winning the league six times, De Bruyne has won the PFA Player of the Year award twice and the Man City Player of the Year award on four occasions.

He also boasts two FA Cup winners' medals, five League Cups and a Champions League to his name.