Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur

Premier League • England

Report reveals when Harry Kane found out Man City had shelved their pursuit in favour of Erling Haaland

Harry Kane reacting to Tottenham missing a chance

Harry Kane found out in February that Manchester City would not be resurrecting their pursuit of him while they focused on Erling Haaland, a report has revealed.

There is a positive mood for Manchester City at present after they won the Premier League title. The fact they are going to add Haaland to the ranks for next season only increases their enthusiasm.

An out-and-out centre-forward has been a missing ingredient at the Etihad Stadium since Sergio Aguero departed last summer. Arguably, the need stretches even further back than that, given how the Argentine’s final season was disrupted by injuries.

They tried to resolve it this time last year by targeting the addition of England captain Kane. However, Tottenham Hotspur held firm and refused their attempts to sign him.

Subsequently, Manchester City turned their attention to Haaland. His father, Alf-Inge, had represented the club during his own playing career.

But son Erling is already forging a bigger reputation. Indeed, after his exploits for Borussia Dortmund over the past few seasons, many feel he could even go on to become a Ballon d’Or winner in the future.

Hence, City are acquiring one of the best prospects on the planet after securing an agreement in principle to sign him for the value of his release clause in the summer.

In turn, Kane will miss out on a move to Manchester – unless City’s rivals United revive their own interest. But it seems that as long as Antonio Conte stays at Tottenham, Kane is happy to remain too.

Now, The Times have shed more light on how the transfer saga unfolded. According to their report, Kane’s entourage got in touch with City in February to see the state of play.

Harry Kane linked to Bayern Munich by former player

Harry Kane linked to Bayern Munich by former player

Tottenham striker Harry Kane has been linked by Jerome Boateng to Bayern Munich to replace Robert Lewandowski as he’s off to Barcelona or PSG

By then, though, City were focusing on Haaland – and they responded to Kane’s representatives with that exact message.

Therefore, it has been clear to Kane for a while that his chances of signing for Pep Guardiola’s side are slim. Under contract for two more seasons with Tottenham, the 28-year-old will likely be lining up in the white shirt when the new campaign begins.

Harry Kane could plan for big Tottenham season

Last summer, it is fair to say Kane’s focus may have been affected by City’s pursuit of him. He proceeded to start the season slowly, only getting two Premier League goals before Christmas.

But he found his feet again in the new year, impressing for his playmaking abilities and restoring his scoring touch. He had 17 league goals to his name by the end of the season.

If Kane knows this early that he will still be at Tottenham next season, he could hit the ground running. He is in the prime of his career now, so could achieve some big numbers.

Of course, there is time for other suitors to give Kane something else to think about. But he seems more committed than he was 12 months ago.

Tottenham will be hoping he remains that way ahead of what could be an exciting season after they secured a return to the Champions League.

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