Manchester United have abandoned their pursuit of Harry Kane after refusing to match Daniel Levy ’s demands for the Tottenham striker.
Kane was at the top of the Red Devils’ summer transfer shortlist with a big-name striker among Erik ten Hag ’s priorities. The England captain was thought to be a realistic prospect due to him having just a year remaining on his contract in North London.
Kane is also fresh off the back of another brilliant campaign. He still managed to put together another 30-goal haul in the Premier League and only finished second behind Manchester City sensation Erling Haaland in the race for the Golden Boot.
United boss Ten Hag had also admitted his admiration of the striker. Speaking back in April ahead of the 2-2 draw between the Red Devils and Spurs, the Dutchman said: “First of all the number of goals, and also his key actions [that] come to a goal, final passes as well. He is just a great player, great personality as well.”
However, a switch to Old Trafford now appears highly unlikely. According to The Guardian, the Red Devils have pulled out of the race for his signature.
The reason for that decision is that the club hierarchy feel that the fee that Spurs would demand for Kane’s signature is ‘unrealistic’. Tottenham chairman Levy is keen to hold onto his services and would be willing to run the risk of him leaving on a free next summer at the end of his contract.
What striker do you think Man Utd should sign this summer? Share your suggestions in the comments below
"[Kane] can absolutely win a trophy at Spurs," he said in April of Kane’s future. “But being a legend is also important. The fact that he's top scorer of Tottenham Hotspur - he's making history. I hope one day that there is a statue of Harry Kane outside our stadium."
United boss Ten Hag is reported to be disappointed at the club’s decision to move on from Kane but understands the current situation. That could well see the Red Devils make a move for one of their alternative targets.
A whole host of strikers have been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer including Napoli hitman Victor Osimhen and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Randal Kolo Muani. Atalanta youngster Ramsus Hojlund is also amongst the contenders.
There were reports that he had held talks virtually with Ten Hag, something that he was quick to deny. Speaking earlier this month, he said: “There has been no video call. I can't say anything about that.
“It's a huge club, so I must have done something right if it says they want me. My goal is to reach the top shelf, and you can say that Manchester United is. So it will be huge.”
