Report: Kevin De Bruyne could've joined Liverpool after Man City exit
Kevin De Bruyne reportedly held brief discussions with Liverpool before ultimately deciding to join Serie A champions Napoli, sources have revealed.
The Reds' proposal, which includes Darwin Nunez, Federico Chiesa, and 17 million pounds, aims to prise the 27-year-old from the Serie A giants, who value him at approximately 75 million euros (64 million pounds).
This development has sparked fresh questions about manager Arne Slot's pursuit of Newcastle's Alexander Isak, previously seen as his dream addition to lead Liverpool's attack.
Journalist Sebastien Vidal revealed the offer on X, stating, "Liverpool have launched a shock offer to Napoli: Darwin Nunez + Federico Chiesa + 17 million pounds to sign Victor Osimhen." The Reds, fresh off a dominant 2024/25 Premier League title win by 10 points over Arsenal, are keen to bolster their squad to maintain their edge in a highly competitive season ahead.
Napoli's decision to part ways with Osimhen stems from manager Antonio Conte's vision, with the striker no longer central to their long-term plans.
Osimhen, who spent last season on loan at Galatasaray, has proven his quality with a lethal goal-scoring record, making him an attractive target for Liverpool's ambitions. "Slot sees an elite No.9 as essential to defend the title," Vidal added, highlighting the manager's determination to strengthen the forward line.
While Isak remains a coveted target, Newcastle have firmly rebuffed any approaches for their talismanic Swede, who is under contract until 2028 and thriving in Champions League football.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano dismissed speculation of an imminent deal, noting that Newcastle could demand a world-record 200 million pounds for Isak. Instead, Liverpool have shifted focus to Osimhen, with Vidal citing "complexities" in negotiations for the Newcastle star as a key factor.
The Reds have been active in the transfer market, with five signings already secured this summer, including Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz, Bournemouth's Milos Kerkez, and Valencia's Giorgi Mamardashvili. Kerkez, a dynamic left-back, completed his medical on Monday and is set to sign a five-year deal, with an announcement expected imminently.
Liverpool are also nearing an agreement for Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi to bolster their defence, with personal terms reportedly close to being finalized.
However, challenges loom elsewhere. A key first-team regular has expressed disappointment over a recent contract offer, fueling speculation of a potential exit.
Meanwhile, midfielder Harvey Elliott, limited to just three league appearances of 45 minutes or more this season, has attracted interest from a Premier League rival, with a 40 million-pound move being mooted.
Recent X posts from Napoli's official account confirm Osimhen's availability, with the club stating, "We are open to offers for Victor as we reshape our squad for the future."
Slot, speaking on X via Liverpool's official channel, emphasized his proactive approach: "We're building a team to compete on all fronts. The transfer window is about finding the right pieces to keep us at the top."
Liverpool's pursuit of Osimhen signals their intent to maintain their Premier League dominance. With a bold offer on the table and Slot's vision taking shape, the Reds are poised for another headline-grabbing transfer coup.