Transfer Talk: Could Saudi move tempt City star De Bruyne?

Kevin De Bruyne has reinforced his status as one of the Premier League greats in recent weeks.

The Manchester City midfielder returned from a long-term injury last month and immediately looked at his influential best.

But rumours have emerged suggesting the Belgian maestro could make the switch to Saudi Arabia this summer after nine seasons with the Citizens.

Ahead of tonight's FA Cup clash with Luton, we consider whether such a move could make sense for both parties.

League leader

De Bruyne has registered six assists and two goals in nine appearances this year, seemingly undiminished by another prolonged spell on the sidelines.

He ranks first in the Premier League for big chances created per 90 (1.35) and completed passes into the final third per 90 (34.22).

The Belgium international is also top for crosses completed (4.04 per 90) and possessions won in the attacking third (2.43 per 90).

De Bruyne remains among the most productive midfielders in the division and still has plenty to offer for City.

Though he will turn 33 in the summer, the former Chelsea and Wolfsburg stars's remarkable ability is showing no signs of let-up.

Pep Guardiola has been able to manage De Bruyne's minutes since his return to action — choosing, for example, to leave him out of the starting XI for last Saturday's trip to Bournemouth.

If City's No17 is kept fit and firing, he could yet be the difference between winning another Premier League title and missing out to Liverpool or Arsenal.

Big decisions

Despite De Bruyne's brilliance, City may feel they are in a position to cash in on a big offer from Saudi Arabia.

He is out of contract in 2025 and is unlikely to become less injury prone as he ages.

But much will depend on whether he would prefer to see out the rest of his career in Manchester or is tempted by the salary on offer in Saudi Arabia.

Guardiola is clearly in no rush to see De Bruyne move on.

After his side's 1-0 win at the Vitality Stadium, the Citizens boss said: "He [De Bruyne] is a special player. 

"He is a legend, he is beloved by our people and he is fresh in his mind because five months is a lot of time. 

"Hopefully in the second part of the season, he can help us be there until the end."

Unfinished business

Rumours of a possible exit are likely to come to the surface repeatedly between now and the end of the season.

Only a new contract at City will put an end to the speculation — and it remains to be seen how negotiations between club and player will pan out.

In the immediate future, though, fans at the Etihad can still enjoy a revitalised De Bruyne performing to his typically high standard.

If it does transpire that a move to Saudi Arabia is the best option, this year will be an opportunity to finish on a high and add to his illustrious list of trophies.

If not, De Bruyne may well still have years left to further cement his City legacy.