Could Kevin De Bruyne ultimately transfer to Inter Miami?

Kevin De Bruyne’s impending Manchester City exit has sparked a transatlantic transfer frenzy, with Inter Miami emerging as shock contenders to pair the Belgian maestro with Lionel Messi. But can David Beckham’s MLS franchise pull off the ultimate coup?

MLS' discovery rights is Inter Miami’s advantage

MLS’ quirky discovery rights system gives Inter Miami pole position to bring in De Bruyne. The discovery rights give clubs a priority on five unsigned targets, and Miami reportedly snagged De Bruyne’s rights after San Diego FC backed off. But priority doesn’t guarantee a deal, especially with Saudi clubs circling and De Bruyne’s massive wage dwarfing MLS’ salary cap.

Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba occupy Inter Miami’s current three Designated Player (DP) slots, and adding De Bruyne would require offloading one of those players or convincing De Bruyne to take a major salary cut. However, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano warned, “We’re not going to sign just for the sake of it.”

How does De Bruyne fit in at Inter Miami?

Inter Miami’s path to signing De Bruyne is riddled with hurdles but if the Herons can pull off a move, the Belgian will be another major headline signing for the club. De Bruyne has enjoyed freedom of space and creativity around him while playing at Manchester City with the likes of Fernandinho and Rodri providing cover. 

With Busquets at the heart of Inter Miami's midfield, De Bruyne can afford that creative freedom linking with the majestic Messi and Luis Suarez upfront. De Bruyne thrives in a system focused on keeping possession and Inter Miami provides that. That cohesion and freedom will be a major tick for the Belgian and so will be the pull of playing alongside one of the greatest players ever.

Why does this move matter?

De Bruyne and Messi have never shared a club, or even a pitch, as teammates. The combined genius of the Argentinian and one of the best midfielders of this generation could transform MLS’ growing influence. For De Bruyne, 33, it’s a chance to redefine his legacy beyond Europe while enjoying Miami’s appeal. For fans, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to watch two maestros play together. 

Imagine Messi’s majestic runs met by De Bruyne’s precision. This isn’t just about goals but about the two painting a masterpiece.