David Moyes and Kevin De Bruyne both celebrating, with Hill Dickinson Stadium behind them
David Moyes and Kevin De Bruyne both celebrating, with Hill Dickinson Stadium behind them
That speculation has only grown in the days since, with it becoming apparent the playmaker is looking for a move away.
De Bruyne only arrived in Naples 16 months ago, but it is believed he has not been able to settle.
Despite that, he has four goals and one assist in 11 Serie A matches this season.
A new update has now emerged out of Italy regarding De Bruyne's future ahead of the window reopening for business on 1 January.
What are Napoli seeking for Kevin De Bruyne exit?
De Bruyne is said to be prioritising a return close to Belgium, which makes fellow interested side PSV - just over the border in the Netherlands - favourites for his signature.
Everton continue to be mentioned as the British side looking to bring De Bruyne back to the Premier League, which he won six times with Man City.
Now, according to Corriere del Mezzogiorno on Saturday, as relayed by TG News 24, neither De Bruyne nor Napoli have ruled out the prospect of a mid-season exit.
However, for that to happen, the conditions for Napoli would have to be favourable and the player would need to show a strong interest in leaving.
Napoli would be after a compensation payment for letting him leave, it is claimed, as well as a severance for his wages.
While nothing is concrete - and nor will it be via press reports - everything points towards De Bruyne and Napoli being mutually understanding that an exit will be on if everything falls into place.
What could Kevin De Bruyne offer Everton?
Many will rightly point to De Bruyne's age - he turns 36 next year - as the big reason Everton should not be considering this move.
But he is starring for Napoli in Italy this season and has already showed what he can do in English football.
Sure, he will be 18 months older than when he left City, but De Bruyne's pace was never his strength.
If Everton can get him on the cheap, it would be a top-class option for David Moyes to use in midfield.
De Bruyne is not a long-term option, but he is still more than capable and would bring some stardust to this Everton side.
If it is to happen, now is the time to pounce before many other teams potentially emerge at the end of the season.