Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has warned rival clubs that it will set them back £223m to trigger Kevin De Bruyne’s release clause.
The Belgian playmaker was voted the Citizens’ Player of the Year in a memorable campaign last time out after scoring 12 goals and claiming 21 assists in all competitions.
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De Bruyne ‘s form earned him links to Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid, but the six-year deal signed in January looks like being enough to fend off any interested suitors.
Speaking to Universo Valdano, Guardiola confirmed that it will take a world record sum to prise the 27-year-old away from the Etihad Stadium.
“He’s an incredible boy. The clause is €250m. I’m sorry, he’s not for sale,” Guardiola said. “He’s very good. He’s a very dynamic player.”