The Belgium international is widely regarded as one of the world's top talents and has been instrumental in the Citizens' sublime form this season, helping them to a 12-point lead at the top of the Premier League table.

And, speaking of De Bruyne's rise to stardom in the English top-flight, Heynckes told Kicker: "De Bruyne didn't play that well last year but I would give the shirt off my back for him.

"You must have a player like him in his position.

"He is far and away the best player in Europe at the moment."