"Seems like he wants to be playing at the top level" - David James believes England star could replace Kevin De Bruyne at Manchester City
Former England goalkeeper David James has claimed that Eberechi Eze could replace Kevin De Bruyne at Manchester City. De Bruyne's future at the Etihad has been subject to speculations in recent weeks as his contract expires next summer.
Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad have been widely linked with the Belgian playmaker. He previously admitted that it would be hard to turn down a move to Saudi Arabia due to the money. Although Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has insisted that De Bruyne will stay at the club, rumors have refused to die down.
David James has now claimed that the Cityzens could have the perfect replacement for De Bruyne in Eberechi Eze. The former England goalkeeper hailed the Crystal Palace star for his confidence on the ball, telling fairbettingsites.co.uk, as quoted by DAZN:
“I think Eberechi Eze is a fantastic player. There’s a confidence in his play which he demonstrated in the Euros that is difficult to teach. He just seems like he wants to be playing at the top level. There seems to be a lot of arrogance and ability among some of those Crystal Palace players, and it looks like he knows where he’s meant to be and where he fits in."
The former Liverpool keeper added:
“The precursor for Manchester City is that if De Bruyne were to move on, then someone like Eze would be easier to approach and sign. I think he’s someone who would definitely enhance any team in the Premier League, including City if the opportunity came around.”
De Bruyne has been a key player for Manchester City since joining the club from Wolfsburg in 2015 in a deal worth a reported £55 million. He has won 15 trophies during his time at the club, contributing with 102 goals and 170 assists in 382 appearances.
Eze, on the other hand, has been an important player for Crystal Palace since his switch to Selhurst Park from Queens Park Rangers in 2020. The seven-cap England international has scored 26 goals and provided 17 assists in 124 games for the Eagles.
Manchester City superstar set to snub huge contract offer from Saudi giants: Reports
Manchester City superstar Kevin De Bruyne is reportedly set to turn down a £156 million contract offer from Saudi Pro League giants Al-Ittihad. As reported by journalist Jeremy Cross of The Daily Star, the Belgian has discussed the proposal with his wife and decided to reject the offer.
It has been claimed that the family has decided to snub the offer as they had reservations about changing their eldest son's school. Al-Ittihad reportedly wants the playmaker to bolster their side as they look to compete with their rivals like Al-Nassr and Al-Hiilal.
Despite his injury troubles last season, De Bruyne impressed whenever he was fit last season. The Manchester City star contributed with six goals and 18 assists in 26 appearances across competitions.