San Diego, which will make its MLS debut next month, is said to be closing in on a deal for a Premier League star.
With just over six weeks to go before the expansion franchise makes its MLS debut, San Diego FC is reportedly closing in on a deal to sign one of the best players to ever grace the English Premier League.
San Diego is eyeing a move for Man City legend
According to The Athletic, San Diego is “closer than ever” to reaching an agreement with Manchester City's Kevin de Bruyne, who is entering the final months of his contract at the Etihad Stadium.
De Bruyne has long been a top target for the Californians as they prepare to become the 30th franchise in the MLS.
And with the Belgian's contract with City expiring at the end of June, San Diego appears well placed to bring the 33-year-old to the US once he becomes a free agent.
San Diego has not filled all the designated player spots in their squad, giving them more financial room to maneuver when it comes to terms with the six-time Premier League champions and 2023 Champions League winners.
What is a 'designated player' in the MLS?
The 'designated player' system, also known as the 'Beckham Rule', allows MLS clubs to have up to three players on their roster with wages higher than the salary cap imposed by the league.
The rule was introduced in 2007, when current Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham became MLS's first designated player when he joined the Los Angeles Galaxy that year.
De Bruyne becomes PL great in trophy-laden City stay
De Bruyne has scored 107 times for Belgium, scoring 104 goals and providing 172 assists in 400 appearances for City since joining Manchester from VfL Wolfsburg in the summer of 2015.
In addition to six Premier League titles and one Champions League, he has helped City to two FA Cups and five EFL Cups.
When will San Diego play their first MLS match?
Ahead of their MLS bow next month, San Diego has assembled a roster that includes Mexican international Hirving 'Chucky' Lozano, Colombia Under-20's Tomás Ángel and Northern Ireland's Paddy McNair, with former USMNT and FC Dallas assistant Mikey Varas hired as head coach.
San Diego, who will participate in the MLS Western Conference, will play their first league match on Sunday, February 23, when they visit defending champion Los Angeles Galaxy. The clash at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California kicks off at 7:00 PM ET/4:00 PM ET.
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