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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
George Smith

Dimitar Berbatov compares Harry Kane to Kevin De Bruyne amid Manchester United transfer stance

Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has compared Tottenham Hotspur star Harry Kane with Manchester City architect-in-chief Kevin De Bruyne.

Kane, who was a firm transfer target for City last summer, has rediscovered his true capabilities in front of goal in recent weeks, scoring seven goals and claiming one assist in his last six Premier League games. He continued his fine run of form by scoring in Spurs' 2-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday evening.

That made the England captain the Premier League's all-time leading goalscorer in away fixtures and it sent a timely reminder to the rest of the league that he has rediscovered his true level of form after a difficult few months. However, although he has only claimed four assists in all competitions this season, in comparison to the 17 he racked up last term, Berbatov has hailed Kane's ability to pick a 'killer pass,' liking him to City star De Bruyne, who, of course, is renowned for his ability to create chances and pick a pass for his team-mates.

READ MORE: Manchester United can repeat Arsenal trick to rebuild squad in next transfer window

"For quite some time, he has been one of the greats in the Premier League," Berbatov told Daily Star Sport. "The City game proved that, and not just because he scores goals.

"Honestly, I look at strikers a bit differently, his overall movement around the pitch, and how he gets the ball. When he has the ball, there is a calmness around the pitch.

"And when he passes the ball, oh my god, it's like I'm watching Kevin De Bruyne playing for Spurs. He's so good at scoring goals and playing killer passes - so he's in between a No.9 and No.10."

This term, Kane, to date, has racked up 26 direct goal contributions in all competitions, scoring 22 times. Considering he has been described as not being at his best for much of the campaign, it remains a hugely impressive tally. It is also why he is likely to be the subject of transfer interest again this summer.

As reported by the Manchester Evening News earlier this month, United could rekindle their interest in the striker this summer as they look to strengthen their attacking ranks. However, Spurs are likely to demand a nine-figure fee for Kane, highlighting how important he is to their plans.

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The Reds are set to prioritise the signing of a central-midfielder above all else this summer, with it having been pinpointed as an area that needs strengthening most. However, adding a new goal-getter-in-chief to their ranks is also set to be high on their to-do list.

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