Kevin de Bruyne will be 'under observation' at Napoli in the coming months as the Serie A side look set to impose a strict rule on the former Manchester City midfielder, just as they did with Scott McTominay.
The 33-year-old midfielder, who bid an emotional farewell to Manchester City this summer after 10 trophy-laden years, is on the verge of joining recently-crowned Serie A champions Napoli on a two-year deal.
For much of the previous campaign, De Bruyne was tipped to join a club in Saudi Arabia.
In fact, he is said to have engaged in "serious" and "positive" talks to join Saudi second-division side Neom SC, while the likes of River Plate, Fenerbahce Galatasaray, and MLS side San Diego FC were also said to be keen.
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But after months of speculation, he is opting to continue his career in Europe with Napoli, with the Belgian arriving for his medical on Thursday morning.
In the coming months, De Bruyne will link up with Scott McTominay, who played a crucial role in their title-winning campaign in 2024/25, scoring 12 goals for Antonio Conte's side as they pipped Inter Milan to the post.
McTominay, who joined the club from Manchester United last summer for a reported £25.7 million, was placed under observation in the opening months of his spell in Italy as players from abroad are closely monitored for their diet due to the 'temptations' of Italian cuisine, according to Calcionapoli24.
"Nutrition for Napoli players is fundamental and Antonio Conte knows it well," the report states. "He wants everyone in top form and that's why he relies on Tiberio Ancora and his staff."
It adds: "The temptation of Neapolitan cuisine can be strong so here comes the warning for a series of foods to avoid, such as dairy products for example."
Given his lengthy stay in England, De Bruyne will likely have to follow the same strict rules around diet.
De Bruyne's emotional goodbye to Manchester City fans
After lifting six Premier League titles with City, as well as five League Cups, two FA Cups and a Champions League, De Bruyne penned a goodbye message to City fans.
"Dear Manchester, Seeing this, you probably realise where this is heading. So I'll get straight to it and let you all know that these will be my final months as a Manchester City player," he said in April.
"Nothing about this is easy to write, but as football players, we all know this day eventually comes. That day is here- and you deserve to hear it from me first.
"Football led me to all of you-and to this city. Chasing my dream, not knowing this period would change my life. This city. This club. These people... gave me EVERYTHING. I had no choice but to give EVERYTHING back! And guess what we won EVERYTHING.
"Whether we like it or not, it's time to say goodbye. Suri, Rome, Mason, Michèle, and I are beyond grateful for what this place has meant to our family. 'Manchester' will forever be on our kids' passports- and more importantly, in each of our hearts.This will always be our HOME.
"We cannot thank the city, club, staff, teammates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride. Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter.
"Let's enjoy these last moments together! Much love, KDB."
Topics: Kevin De Bruyne, Napoli, Scott Mctominay, Serie A
Jack Kenmare