Luke Shaw cheekily hinted that he was trying to convince Harry Kane and Declan Rice to move to Manchester United this summer.
Whilst the Red Devils have not kicked off their business in earnest in the current transfer window, they are expected to be busy. Erik ten Hag has already submitted a lengthy shortlist of the type of players that he wants at Old Trafford.
Those demands included a big-name striker to bolster the club’s forward line, as well as another midfielder. Kane and Rice would certainly fit that remit very well considering their starring performances for Spurs and West Ham - as well as England - over the past few seasons.
Red Devils’ left-back Luke Shaw also appears to be doing all he can to get the duo to sign for United during the current internationals. Ahead of Monday’s Euro qualifier with North Macedonia at Old Trafford, Gareth Southgate ’s side are training at Carrington - Man United’s training base.
This was not a fact lost on Shaw who shared pictures of him alongside Kane and Rice with the caption “Carrington tour”, alongside eye emojis. The United defender has never hidden his admiration of Kane.
Speaking after the striker missed a crucial penalty against France in the World Cup, he said: “There is no concern at all. For me, Harry is the best striker in the world.
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“He is a very important part of this team. In fact, almost the most important part of the team. Whether he has been at his best or not, he is a crucial player for us."
Whilst Shaw would no doubt be keen to see the pair stay in the North West, deals at this stage for both look unlikely. The Red Devils have already been forced to abandon their interest in the Tottenham striker due to Daniel Levy’s demands. Rice on the other hand appears slightly more attainable.
West Ham owner David Sullivan has already confirmed that the midfielder will be allowed to leave the London Stadium should a suitable offer be lodged for him. There is severe competition for his services though.
Arsenal hold long-term interest in Rice and have already seen a bid turned down for him. Mikel Arteta ’s side are expected to return to negotiations with an improved offer but could be joined by Premier League rivals in talks including Manchester City.
Meanwhile, United’s spending this summer is set to be limited regardless of whether a takeover is pushed through or not. It is unlikely at this stage that the Red Devils will want to push through to lucrative deals for Rice and Kane, particularly when there are other positions in the side to strengthen.
All of Kane, Shaw and Rice started in England’s 4-0 win against Malta earlier this month. The Tottenham striker netted the first goal of the game from the penalty spot just after the half-hour mark.