Galatasaray line up move for Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne

Galatasaray are considering a move to sign Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne in this summer’s transfer window, according to reports in Italy.

The Turkish champions are interested in bringing the Belgium international to Istanbul and view him as a key target to strengthen their squad ahead of next season.

Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb has reported that Galatasaray regard De Bruyne as the ideal signing to raise the team’s overall level following their domestic success.

The Super Lig side are understood to be preparing a two-year contract offer for the 34-year-old, who currently plays for Napoli in Serie A.

Galatasaray ready with lucrative offer

According to the same report, Galatasaray’s board has drawn up what is described as a lucrative salary package in an attempt to convince De Bruyne to make the switch.

The club hope that the financial terms and the prospect of competing for major honours will be enough to secure the former Manchester City playmaker’s signature.

The report adds that developments in negotiations are expected “in the coming days”, with Galatasaray aiming to move quickly in the market.

No details were given about any prospective transfer fee or whether formal talks have begun between Galatasaray and Napoli.

Champions of Turkey and back in Europe

Galatasaray head into the summer as reigning Super Lig champions after securing the 2025-2026 title.

It was their fourth consecutive league crown and the 26th in the club’s history, underlining their current dominance in Turkish domestic football.

That triumph has also ensured Galatasaray’s participation in next season’s UEFA Champions League, increasing the club’s need for experienced, high-quality additions to compete on multiple fronts.

De Bruyne, with extensive Champions League experience and a long record of success at club and international level, is seen as matching that profile.

Foreign player rules

Any potential deal would have to fit within the Turkish Super Lig’s regulations on overseas players.

Current league rules permit clubs to register a maximum of 14 foreign professionals in their squad.

Galatasaray would therefore need to manage their existing foreign contingent carefully if they are to create space for De Bruyne in their list.

The reports did not specify whether Galatasaray plan to offload any current foreign players to accommodate a move.

Napoli, who hold De Bruyne’s registration, have not commented publicly on the reported interest, and there has been no indication yet of the Italian club’s stance on a possible transfer.

Further movement in the story is expected as Galatasaray step up their preparations for the new season and seek to finalise their squad for domestic and European competition.