Manchester City agree £54m deal to sign Kevin De Bruyne – German media reports

German publications kicker and Wolfsburger Allgemeine Zeitung both claim that the deal has been agreed in principle and should be finalised on Thursday or Friday.

De Bruyne’s stunning form for Wolfsburg last season, scoring 10 times and claiming 20 assists in 34 league games, has seen him become one of Europe’s most talked-about players.

It is only 20 months since Wolfsburg paid €20 million to sign the winger from Chelsea after an unhappy spell at Stamford Bridge.

Andreas Schulz (Eurosport Germany): Both publications are reliable. Wolfsburger Allgemeine is a reputable daily newspaper from Wolfsburg, so they are close to the club; they are a good source. kicker is THE magazine on football in Germany and their website is very strong on news and rumours. kicker is almost the best source you might have for such a news.

The transfer is no surprise as for the last few weeks it became apparent that KdB might leave. But on the other hand there are some elements of surprise as the club doesn’t need the money (thanks to their parent company VW) and they want to shine in the Champions League, which will be more difficult without their best player. Therefore, expect some late signings from Wolfsburg to replace the Belgian.

Marcus Foley (British Eurosport): Manchester City have made an exceptional start to the season and are the Premier League pacesetters. The signing of Raheem Sterling added variety and thrust to an attacking unit that at some points last season looked a touch flat-footed.

If De Bruyne does join a front four that would include Sterling, David Silva and Sergio Aguero, then City will have the most devastating attacking unit in England. Their business this summer has addressed deficiencies within the squad, and represents a serious statement of intent.