Chicago Fire FC are in talks with Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne about a designated player contract, a source has confirmed to ESPN, and appear to have the inside track to sign the Belgian playmaker if he makes the move to MLS.

De Bruyne announced last month that he would be leaving Man City at the end of the season when his contract with the English club expires. The 33-year-old has been with the four-time defending Premier League champions since 2015.

Inter Miami CF still hold De Bruyne's discovery rights, a right of first refusal mechanism used by MLS to prevent teams from bidding against each other for a player's services. But Miami already have the maximum number of DPs in Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets and Lionel Messi, all of whom are out of contract at the end of the season.

That seems to have opened the door for the Fire.

New York City FC and D.C. United have also reportedly expressed an interest, but Chicago, with only two DPs on their roster and an ambitious owner in Joe Mansueto, would appear to be an ideal landing spot should De Bruyne decide to play in MLS.

De Bruyne could also stay in Europe. Asked about his next move after the win over Crystal Palace on 12 April, he left the door open.

"Whatever project is available, I'm willing to listen," De Bruyne said. "I love football. I love to play football and if a nice project comes, and my family is good with that, then we are able to make a decision."