Erik Ten Hag’s dream signing at Manchester United: £200k-a-week star

Manchester United are reportedly ready to challenge Real Madrid in the race to sign Harry Kane, with both clubs looking to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season.

Tottenham Hotspur are aware of the interest in Kane, but are determined to keep the England striker for the final year of his contract.

While Kane has not shown a desire to play abroad, Real Madrid believe they have the financial power and football heritage to tempt him to Spain.

However, Manchester United are Kane’s only current option in England if he wants to move, and they are said to be prepared to challenge Madrid if they make a move for the striker.

The 27-year-old has been one of the Premier League’s most prolific strikers in recent years, scoring 23 goals and providing 14 assists in the 2020/21 season. United are said to be keen to bring in a proven goalscorer, and Kane would certainly fit the bill.

If a move for Kane falls through, United have reportedly identified a number of alternative targets, including Victor Osimhen, Dusan Vlahovic, Gonçalo Ramos, Randal Kolo Muani, Lautaro Martinez and Rasmus Hojland.

However, Rashford is also being considered for a more central role in the next phase of his career, and could be given the chance to prove himself as a No.9.

United are also said to be in the process of a potential takeover, which could open up their options in the transfer market.

The club is reportedly working on a pathway to sign Mason Mount as their first signing of the summer, but would need to free up funds to make further additions to the squad.

While sources close to Kane have not yet declared any intention of demanding a transfer this summer, a battle between Madrid and United would test his loyalty.

United know they will not be welcome bidders, but believe they are Kane’s only viable option if he moves to another Premier League club.

Erik ten Hag’s men were beaten 2-1 by Manchester City in the FA Cup final last weekend, and the plan is to make sure such problems are not still an issue by the start of next season.

With the club looking to challenge for the Premier League title and other major honours, a proven goalscorer like Kane could be the missing piece of the puzzle.