Man City give Kevin De Bruyne 'verdict' as Joao Cancelo transfer update emerges

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has been the subject of speculation this summer as he enters the final year of his contract

Manchester City are reportedly not expected to sign any replacements for Kevin De Bruyne this summer.

The Belgian attacking midfielder entered the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium at the start of this month and this has sent the rumour mill into a frenzy. Reports have suggested De Bruyne has reached a 'verbal agreement' with Saudi Pro League club Al Ittihad.

However, The Athletic understands City are prepared to keep De Bruyne this summer no matter what. The 33-year-old's future beyond 2025 is still thought to be unclear but City have no desire to sell or bring in anyone to replace him at this stage.

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Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze is thought to be a target for City but the report adds that Pep Guardiola's side are not planning a move for him at this stage of the window. It is expected the Blues would be able to trigger the release clause in Eze's contract with a £60m bid.

Meanwhile, City find themselves in a stalemate surrounding the future of Joao Cancelo. The full-back remains out of the Blues' plans for next season and the consensus at the Etihad Stadium is that a permanent transfer is best for all parties.

The Athletic adds though that City are realistic and understand there are very few suitors who want to sign Cancelo permanently. Therefore, the best bet for City is to allow him to go out on loan again next season but it is unclear whether or not Barcelona would be one of the teams looking to bring him on board temporarily, again.