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San Diego FC has once again been linked with one of the biggest names in world soccer.
According to a new report from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, San Diego FC and the Chicago Fire have emerged as the leading MLS contenders to sign Belgian star Kevin De Bruyne if he leaves Napoli this summer. Inter Miami is also reportedly interested, although their recent move for Casemiro could make another blockbuster signing far more difficult under MLS roster and salary rules.
The report claims De Bruyne had previously held talks with both San Diego FC and Inter Miami before deciding to remain in Europe. Now, however, an MLS move has reportedly become a more realistic possibility, with San Diego, Chicago and Miami all monitoring the situation.
For San Diego FC, completing a deal would not be straightforward.
The club just filled its third and final Designated Player (DP) spot by signing Tunisian international Elias Achouri from FC Copenhagen. With Anders Dreyer, Hirving "Chucky" Lozano and Achouri all occupying DP slots, SDFC would need to free one before De Bruyne could be added under current MLS roster rules.
That has naturally fueled speculation surrounding Lozano's future. While there has been no indication from the club that the Mexican star is on the move, transferring or buying down his contract would likely be necessary if San Diego hopes to make room for a player of De Bruyne's stature.
On the field, the move would certainly make sense. Even at 35, De Bruyne remains one of the world's premier playmakers. His vision, passing range and ability to dictate tempo would fit naturally into Mikey Varas' possession-based system while giving SDFC another elite creator alongside Dreyer.
For now, though, this remains exactly what it is—a rumor. Napoli has not indicated it is prepared to part ways with the Belgian midfielder, and no formal negotiations with MLS clubs have been confirmed. Still, the fact that San Diego FC continues to be mentioned alongside Chicago Fire and Inter Miami in the race for one of the biggest names in world football is another sign of the club's growing ambition.
