Gary Neville claims Man Utd's Harry Kane pursuit could be over for key reason

Manchester United’s pursuit of Harry Kane may have been dealt a major blow, according to Gary Neville.

Sky Sports claimed Kane would need to drive any exit from Tottenham with the club maintaining the striker is not for sale.

The Tottenham record goalscorer is approaching the final year of his contract, and there is reportedly growing concern that the player will not sign fresh terms amid the turbulence engulfing the club since the World Cup.

Indeed, Ryan Mason was named Spurs’ second caretaker manager in less than a month after the sacking of Cristian Stellini, who only stepped in when Antonio Conte was let go in March. Meanwhile, managing director of football Fabio Paratici resigned after losing an appeal in Italy against a 30-month ban from the game.

While the situation has allegedly encouraged Kane’s suitors, Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy has insisted Kane is not on the market this summer irrespective of whether he agrees to a new deal.

Man Utd’s Kane snag

While the disruption at Spurs may have encouraged his many admirers, former United captain Neville claimed the disruption at the north London club may further incentivise the club to cling on to their most prized asset.

Speaking to Sky Sports while commentating on Liverpool’s dramatic 4-3 win over Spurs, Neville said: “The last few months have been shocking.

“When you think about this season for Spurs and how it’s going to end, I’m not sure they can let Harry Kane go in the summer.

“I think they’re going to let him play out the last year of his contract and build around him next season with a new manager.

“If he leaves in the summer will a new manager – if he’s a big name – really want to take the job without Harry Kane there?

“They might have to swallow that they won’t get a fee for him the season after or try to encourage him to stay during that season.”