Everton are considering signing former Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne to further strengthen their squad in the winter market.
The Belgium international spent a decade at Manchester City and was a key part of Pep Guardiola’s squad that won several trophies, including the Champions League in 2023. The Etihad club won the treble during the 2022/23 season.
He left the Citizens as a free agent and joined Napoli in June 2025. The move hasn’t gone well for both parties, and Everton are ready to open their door for him in January.
De Bruyne has Everton option
The attacking midfielder scored 108 goals and contributed 177 assists in 422 matches for Manchester City. However, he hasn’t replicated the same form for the Serie A side.
Last season, the 35-year-old struggled with a hamstring injury and managed five goals and four assists in 21 matches. This season, he has four goals and two assists after 15 matches.
On October 8th, former Napoli striker Roberto Carlos Sosa said that the “spark never really ignited” between Kevin De Bruyne and the Naples club.
A month later, Calciomercato.it backs it up when discussing the Toffees’ interest in the ex-Premier League star. Their title says ‘Everton’s attempt for De Bruyne in January’.
Everton can offer escape route
Within the report, the outlet explains the player is going through a difficult phase. He has a goal and an assist in the last eight matches for Napoli.
Calciomercato.it further adds: ‘The Belgian midfielder also appears to be in a decline mentally and could sensationally return to the Premier League in January.’
This is where David Moyes’ side come into the picture. It’s said they have made initial contact with his representatives to assess the ‘real chances’ of securing his services in January.
Kevin De Bruyne’s contract expires in 2027, with an option for another year. Despite this, Napoli could decide against releasing him in the next window.
Therefore, Everton have to convince the Italian club to bring the former Manchester City man to the Merseyside club in January.
With the Belgian open to returning to the Premier League, the Toffees may need to part with a few million.
