Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami could be outshined as Kevin De Bruyne reportedly draws interest from MLS rivals

Since Manchester City officially announced Kevin De Bruyne’s departure at the end of the 2024-25 season, the Belgian star has been linked with several clubs worldwide. Inter Miami quickly emerged as a frontrunner, thanks in part to their open Designated Player slot. However, Lionel Messi’s team may now face stiff competition as multiple MLS rivals have reportedly joined the race.

Following the exit of Leonardo Campana, Inter Miami has been in the market for a marquee signing to fill the vacant DP position. De Bruyne seemed like a natural fit, especially alongside stars like Messi, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets. But according to The Athletic, teams like Chicago Fire, New York City FC, and D.C. United have expressed serious interest in signing the Manchester City midfielder.

While Inter Miami currently holds the MLS discovery rights for De Bruyne—giving them initial negotiating preference—they could still be outbid or outmaneuvered by one of their Eastern Conference competitors.

Among those clubs, the Chicago Fire have reportedly made the strongest push. As Fabrizio Romano noted, under new head coach Gregg Berhalter, the Fire view De Bruyne as a game-changer who could complete a DP trio with Jonathan Bamba and Hugo Cuypers.

New York City FC, part of the City Football Group along with Manchester City, presents another intriguing possibility. However, depending on how De Bruyne’s exit from the Premier League champions unfolds, that relationship could complicate matters. Meanwhile, D.C. United, which hasn’t made the playoffs since 2019, may offer fewer competitive incentives despite financial ambition.

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Kevin De Bruyne drops bombshell regarding his departure from Manchester City: Here’s how he found out

Inter Miami moving fast to secure De Bruyne

With De Bruyne’s contract expiring in June 2025, he’s eligible to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs. While the player recently said he’s “open to everything,” Inter Miami have already made a strategic move that suggests they’re preparing to land a major international signing.

The club recently acquired an international roster spot from the Portland Timbers in exchange for $270,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM). This opens the door for another foreign addition in 2025—potentially Kevin De Bruyne.

Given the team’s star-studded roster and ambitions to remain competitive in both MLS and international competitions, De Bruyne would be a transformational signing. But with rival MLS clubs entering the race, Inter Miami may face more competition than anticipated.