"Sources have told..." - Journalist drops Man Utd transfer bombshell as "nightmare" scenario fears revealed

Manchester United could end their pursuit of Harry Kane due to fears of entering negotiations with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy.

The Red Devils are in the market for a proven number nine this summer, having struggled for options in attack all season.

Erik ten Hag has allegedly made Kane his priority transfer target, with the 29-year-old's contract set to run out in 2024.

However, in a twist of fate, United may turn their attentions elsewhere, with the club cautious of doing business with Levy.

Man Utd "nightmare" scenario revealed

Respected journalist Mark Ogden reports that United are wary of entering negotiations with Levy, citing Dimitar Berbatov's switch from north London as a cause for concern.

United are thought to still harbour a grudge after Levy forced the club to break their own transfer record in a £30.75m deal for the Bulgarian in 2008.

Sources have told ESPN that the club "can't afford to go through that nightmare" again, and therefore could halt their pursuit.

"United can't afford to start the season without a new striker," the source said. "And having dealt with Levy in the past, they don't want to go through that nightmare all over again for Kane with so much at stake, so they might not even get involved."

The report also states that following Berbatov's arrival on transfer deadline day, 'Sir Alex Ferguson and chief executive David Gill vowed never to deal with Levy again - a pact they honoured until they both retired five years later.'

Fast forward to the present day and United and Tottenham could be set to lock horns in the transfer market once more.

Indeed, Levy is expected to play hard ball for Kane, with Spurs likely to demand over £100million for their prized asset.

Whilst Kane has also attracted interest from overseas. Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Paris-Saint Germain have all been linked to the England skipper. However, they are more likely to return next year when he is available as a free agent.

Ten Hag has relied heavily on Marcus Rashford this campaign, who has helped his side reach third place in the Premier League table.

But an experienced striker could be the missing piece to Ten Hag's team as the Dutchman looks to transform his side into title contenders next season.

Meanwhile, Kane is facing another trophy-less season at Spurs after they were knocked out of the FA Cup and Champions League within a matter of days.