Manchester City eye Eagles star to replace Saudi-bound De Bruyne

Manchester City are reportedly eyeing Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze as a potential replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who has been linked with a move to Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League.

De Bruyne is reportedly close to agreeing on personal terms with Al-Ittihad, with the Belgian midfielder having one year left on his contract with City but considering a move due to the substantial financial offer from the Saudi club.

The 33-year-old star recently expressed the need to weigh his options, considering that he is entering the twilight of his career, and is unlikely to get such a significant financial offer again.

His departure would be a considerable loss for City, as he has been instrumental in their most successful period with 102 goals and 170 assists in 382 appearances since joining from Werder Bremen in 2015.

With De Bruyne’s exit from Manchester City almost a certainty, the Cityzens are targeting Eze to fill the potential void left by the Belgian.

Eze, who can play both central and attacking midfield roles, has impressed with his performances for Crystal Palace, with the 25-year-old having a standout campaign last season, scoring 11 goals and providing four assists, and earning a call-up to the England side for Euro 2024.

Tottenham Hotspur have also shown interest in Eze, but they are unlikely to match City's financial prowess and the appeal of playing in the Champions League.

The England international is still under contract with Crystal Palace, and having already lost Michael Olise to Bayern Munich for £52 million, are hesitant to let go of another key player. However, City's long-term interest and Eze's interest in joining the Cityzens could force their hand.