Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are reportedly being edged out by an MLS rival in their pursuit of signing Kevin De Bruyne in the summer transfer window.
Kevin De Bruyne has become one of the most sought-after players ahead of the upcoming season, with his expected departure from Manchester City as a free agent. While Inter Miami initially appeared to be the frontrunner, Lionel Messi’s club is now reportedly being edged out by an MLS rival in the race for the Belgian star.
With a spot in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup already secured, Inter Miami are eager to bolster their roster—and De Bruyne has been at the top of the club’s wishlist. The Herons even have an open Designated Player (DP) slot following Leonardo Campana’s departure. However, another MLS side has emerged as a more aggressive contender in the pursuit.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chicago Fire are currently the only MLS team to have held serious talks with De Bruyne ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window. Romano adds that, unlike Chicago, Inter Miami have not engaged in active negotiations with the player.
While De Bruyne recently said he’s “open to everything,” there had also been speculation about potential moves to Serie A side Como or a return to Chelsea. However, Romano has dismissed those rumors, stating that no formal discussions have taken place with either club.
Despite holding De Bruyne’s MLS discovery rights—which gives them initial negotiation privileges—Inter Miami are not in control of the situation. Those rights do not prevent Chicago Fire from striking a deal if the player prefers their offer.
Chicago Fire reportedly take the lead
Ahead of the summer window, Inter Miami made one official move by acquiring an international roster slot from the Portland Timbers in exchange for $270,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM). Still, Chicago Fire may have the upper hand for one key reason.
According to Sky Sports’ Sacha Tavolieri, Chicago Fire have offered De Bruyne a Designated Player deal that closely matches his current salary at Manchester City. Inter Miami, meanwhile, have yet to determine what salary package they would offer the Belgian midfielder.
De Bruyne has indicated that his next move will depend not only on the sporting project but also on what’s best for his family—similar to the considerations that led Messi to Miami. For now, the Manchester City legend is still weighing his options with his representatives and family.
