Why Lionel Messi's move to Saudi Arabia could prevent Harry Kane joining Man Utd this summer

Lionel Messi’s reported move to Saudi Arabia could cause a transfer domino effect that prevents Harry Kane from joining Manchester United this summer.

According to AFP Messi’s move to Saudi Arabia is “a done deal”.

The seven-time Balon d’Or winner is out of contract at Paris Saint-Germain and has been heavily linked with a return to Barcelona, who he first joined as a 13-year-old back in 2000.

But while the Blaugrana were exploring ways to pull off a sensational Messi return, AFP, citing a source close to negotiations, say the Argentina star will be moving to the Middle East.

Messi will reportedly strike a deal with Saudi side Al-Hilal believed to be worth a whopping £522million, making it one of the most expensive contracts in sports history.

Should the transfer go through, it would generate ripples in the summer window that could have direct implications on United’s pursuit of Kane.

Why Messi’s move could prevent Man Utd signing Kane

Should Messi depart PSG as expected this summer, the Ligue 1 giants will likely look to make a marquee signing.

Indeed, last month Football Insider reported PSG were ready to offer some €150million (£130million) to Napoli for Victor Osimhen, to fend off interest from Chelsea, United, and Bayern Munich.

Should Osimhen go to PSG, Bayern would likely step up their efforts for Kane. The reigning Bundesliga champions are still on the hunt for an out-and-out striker following the sale of Robert Lewandowski last summer, and Kane is frequently cited as a target.

And Bayern’s pursuit could cause serious problems to United’s ability to sign Kane.

Moving to the Bavarian side would almost guarantee Kane silverware, while it’s a move Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is more likely to sanction.

Levy has insisted he would rather keep Kane beyond the season, even though the England captain is entering the last year of his contract. However, it has also been widely reported Levy would rather sell Kane to a foreign club than a Premier League rival.

Furthermore, United’s stuttering form has meant their top-four hopes are on the brink. Should Erik ten Hag’s men fail to qualify for Europe’s premier competition it would make Bayern a more attractive proposition for the immediate future.