According to ESPN’s Insider Notebook, Antonio Conte may have to fight to keep Harry Kane away from Manchester City.
Manchester City are preparing a new bid for Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane in the January transfer window, according to ESPN, in what could be Antonio Conte’s first major battle as Tottenham Hotspur manager.
The city is still looking for a striker after missing out on Kane in the summer. The England captain stated his desire for a new challenge away from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, only to pledge his immediate future to Spurs near the end of the transfer window.
Tottenham fans are unhappy with the 28-year-old after a disappointing performance in a 3-0 loss to Manchester United.
Before Daniel Levy replaced Nuno Espirito Santo with Antonio Conte, there was hope it might alter his opinion ahead of the January transfer window. According to insiders, Kane is satisfied with hiring the former Chelsea and Inter Milan manager, who has won silverware in England and Italy.
Man City would be willing to put Spurs’ resolve to keep Kane to the test if they were given reason to believe a deal was possible. Kane is under contract with Tottenham until 2024, and Levy has consistently valued the forward at more than £150 million – a fee that City is unwilling to pay.
According to ESPN, before taking over, Conte was assured that Kane would be included in his plans. However, given how hard the club has been hit financially by the coronavirus pandemic, a large offer could force Levy to reconsider. Still, Spurs have privately stated their determination to keep Kane until the end of the season. In the coming weeks and months, his relationship with Conte will be an important factor in the situation.
Manchester City is also interested in Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Haaland, with several Europe’s top clubs, including Manchester United and Real Madrid, expected to be interested next summer.
