Manchester City wants to swap De Bruyne for Real Madrid’s midfielder.

Manchester City Eyes Jude Bellingham as Kevin De Bruyne’s Successor

As Real Madrid gears up for the Madrid Derby at the Santiago Bernabéu, thoughts are already drifting toward their highly anticipated UEFA Champions League clash with Manchester City. However, the tension isn’t limited to the pitch—off it, Pep Guardiola has his eyes set on one of Madrid’s brightest stars: Jude Bellingham.

The De Bruyne Dilemma

Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester City’s midfield maestro, is nearing the twilight of his European career. Persistent injuries over the last year and a half have hampered his performances, and reports suggest he’s contemplating a move to Major League Soccer (MLS) for a lucrative final chapter.

Guardiola, never one to leave gaps in his squad, has identified an “impossible” target to fill De Bruyne’s shoes—Jude Bellingham. The City boss has long admired the English midfielder, having previously tried to sign him during his time at Borussia Dortmund.

Why Bellingham?

Bellingham embodies everything Guardiola seeks in a midfielder:

• Versatility: Capable of playing as a box-to-box dynamo or in an advanced playmaker role.
• Tactical Intelligence: His positioning, vision, and decision-making are beyond his years.
• Physicality: Strong, dynamic, and relentless in both attack and defense.

His meteoric rise at Real Madrid has only solidified his status as one of the best midfielders in the world, making him an ideal replacement for De Bruyne.

Madrid’s Firm Stance

Despite City’s interest, Real Madrid has no intention of parting with their prized asset. Bellingham has become the heart of Madrid’s midfield, already earning legendary status among fans and teammates. His recent comments make it clear:

“When Real Madrid calls, it sends vibrations through the whole house. It’s not that other clubs weren’t good, but Real Madrid is on another level.” — Jude Bellingham

Bellingham’s loyalty to Madrid, combined with his love for the club’s history and culture, makes a transfer highly unlikely, regardless of City’s financial power.

More Than Just a Champions League Tie

As Madrid and City prepare to clash, this matchup carries more weight than ever. Beyond the battle for European supremacy, there’s a subplot of transfer intrigue, with Guardiola plotting ways to lure Bellingham to the Etihad.

While Manchester City may be ready to break the bank, Real Madrid pays with glory, and that’s a currency few players can resist.