Harry Kane could snub Man Utd for hugely controversial transfer as Tottenham face 'nightmare' choice

As speculation mounts over Harry Kane’s future and a move to Manchester United, the England international has also be linked to another potential transfer – one which would destroy his reputation at Tottenham Hotspur.

On Monday, the Telegraph claimed United have started to make attempts to find out what it would take to buy Kane, amid increasing expectation the striker will not sign a new Tottenham contract.

United are reportedly planning to bid for Kane, though exploring what the 29-year-old’s price tag might be.

Kane’s current contract will have 12 months remaining on it at the end of the season, and while his advisers are not commenting on the situation, the Telegraph’s “Tottenham sources” claim there is currently little chance the striker will recommit to Spurs in the summer.

The prospect of United making a serious offer for Kane has been deemed a “nightmare scenario” for Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy, who will be weighing up whether to sell the club’s star player this summer or risk losing him on a free transfer at the end of next term.

However, there is an alternative reality that could be equally as nightmarish for Levy.

Kane to Chelsea?

It has been widely reported that Mauricio Pochettino is in pole position to become Chelsea’s next manager, after a series of positive talks with the club.

Discussions are expected to continue this week, led by Chelsea’s’ co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, but the former Tottenham boss is thought to be the clear front-runner.

Should Pochettino become the club’s new permanent head coach it will almost certainly spark speculation that the Argentine would try to reunite with Kane at Stamford Bridge.

The move on paper makes sense given Chelsea have the money to sign Kane, are in desperate need of a number nine and the player knows Pochettino well.

However, it is unlikely Spurs would sell Kane to Chelsea given the rivalry that exists between the two clubs, while the player may be reluctant to jeopardise his legend status in north London.

Levy could be faced with the prospect of Kane signing for one of United or Chelsea, or leaving for free, with each option likely to be difficult for Spurs fans to stomach.

Topics: Football, Harry Kane, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, Mauricio Pochettino

Chris Byfield

Sport journalist with experience writing on football, rugby, boxing and the Olympics. I'm also a Crystal Palace fan. Please don't hold this against me.