Kevin De Bruyne and Napoli are reportedly on course to part ways at the end of the 2026/27 season, with negotiations over an extension to the Belgian midfielder's contract currently stalled. According to Italian transfer journalist Nicolò Schira, talks over a new deal have reached an impasse. De Bruyne's current contract with Napoli is due to expire in June 2027.
The latest development comes just months after Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna publicly insisted that De Bruyne remained part of the club's plans. In July, Manna said that the 35-year-old had signed a two-year contract with an option for an additional season and described him as an important part of the club's project under new manager Massimiliano Allegri.
De Bruyne joined Napoli in the summer of 2025 following the end of his decade-long association with Manchester City. The move marked a new chapter for the Belgian after an illustrious spell in England, where he established himself as one of Manchester City's most influential players and won multiple Premier League titles and the Champions League.
The uncertainty surrounding De Bruyne's future also follows a major change in Napoli's technical structure. Antonio Conte left the club after two seasons, with Massimiliano Allegri appointed as his successor. De Bruyne had previously been openly critical of aspects of Conte's tactical approach, saying the pair had different footballing visions.
Manna acknowledged that he did not appreciate some of De Bruyne's comments but insisted at the time that the situation would not prevent the midfielder from remaining part of the squad. Despite the setback, De Bruyne remained an important figure for Napoli before his fitness problems limited his involvement.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his club future, De Bruyne has continued to commit himself to Belgium. Speaking recently after the 2026 World Cup, the midfielder said he had no plans to retire from international football while he remained motivated and physically fit. De Bruyne, who has won 124 caps for Belgium, said he still felt capable of performing at a high level.
A possible second move in two years would create another major decision in the final stages of De Bruyne's club career. Reports earlier in 2026 had already suggested that intermediaries were exploring possible destinations for the midfielder, including clubs in Türkiye and Saudi Arabia. For now, De Bruyne remains a Napoli player, with his existing contract running until June 2027.
Key points
- Kevin De Bruyne's contract talks with Napoli have stalled.
- De Bruyne's current contract with Napoli is due to expire in June 2027.
- De Bruyne has continued to commit himself to Belgium despite club uncertainty.
