England ace named as Man Utd’s ‘prime’ summer target as former loan star backs Serie A move

Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane is reportedly high on Manchester United’s list of targets ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Manchester Evening News have revealed the England captain is Erik ten Hag’s ‘prime striker target’ as he looks to strengthen his attacking options in a bid to build on a positive first season in charge at Old Trafford.

The 29-year-old frontman will head into the final year of his current contract this summer and United are named as the only Premier League club Kane could join as they close in on a return to the Champions League.

Bayern Munich are also believed to be keen to add a striker to their ranks this summer and Kane would be viewed as an option for the Bundesliga giants. But United can offer him a chance to continue in his pursuit of Alan Shearer’s Premier League goalscoring record and give him a chance to end his long wait for major silverware.

After breaking through and establishing himself as Spurs first-choice striker in 2014, Kane has gone on to become the North London club’s all-time record goalscorer with 201 goals in all competitions - but he is yet to get his hands on any silverware during his domestic and international career.

Speaking about a possible move for Kane recently, United legend Gary Neville said: “He is a wonderful player, he’s a great professional, and I think if Kane could leave now, and you could get him an exit out of there to a club in Manchester probably, United or City, I think he would take that opportunity.

“It’s more than likely not going to be City because of their Haaland expenditure and what they’ve done with him, but Manchester United are desperate for a centre forward.”

Former loan star gives backing to move for Serie A hot-shot

United have also been heavily linked with a move for Napoli’s prolific striker Victor Osimhen in recent weeks.

The Nigeria international has plundered his way to 21 goals in just 26 games in all competitions this season as his side have moved 15 points clear of nearest rivals Inter Milan at the top of Serie A.

Progress has also come in the Champions League and Napoli seem highly likely to progress into the quarter-final next week after Osimhen netted to help his side secure a 2-0 win at Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt in the first leg of their round-of-16 tie last month.

United could receive some help from a former loan star if they opt to move for the £80m-rated striker after Odion Ighalo gave his support to his fellow Nigerian and the prospect of a move to Old Trafford.

The former Red Devils loan star told Sky Sports News: “I think it’s a good fit because he is a young boy, he runs and he can score goals. Having Victor Osimhen and Rashford in the top at Manchester United will cause any defender panic, because they are two fast players and they are goalscorers.

“I think he will fit in Manchester United so well. If he asked for my opinion and what should he do, I would advise him to join Man United because, for me, they are the biggest club.”