Man Utd ready to launch early bids for Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane and Chelsea’s Mason Mount – Paper Round

Man Utd step up Kane pursuit

Manchester United have made Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane their top transfer target for the upcoming summer window and will try to complete an early deal to bring him to Old Trafford. United manager Erik ten Hag is reportedly “obsessed” with the England captain and the club believe they can convince Spurs to sell due to Kane’s contract situation.

The 29-year-old’s current deal expires in 2024, meaning he could leave for free next summer if he does not sign an extension in north London.

“United believe signing Kane could transform them into title contenders and they intend to test Levy’s resolve. They are wary of a saga developing and do not want to spend the entire summer chasing the Spurs striker.

“It is believed they will look to make their move early and hope they will come up with enough money to convince Levy to sell. Ten Hag is said to be obsessed with Kane.”

Mount prefers Man Utd move

Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount is reportedly leaning towards a move to Manchester United if he is to depart Stamford Bridge this summer. The 24-year-old is wanted by a number of Premier League sides, including Arsenal and Liverpool, as well as Bayern Munich. Mount has failed to reach an agreement for a contract extension with his boyhood club, which could lead to an exit this summer as he only has one year remaining on his current deal.

“The Athletic reported in March that Liverpool were leading the list of domestic suitors for Mount, with former Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel — now at Bayern Munich — also credited with an interest. Mount is also a target for Arsenal, as Mikel Arteta seeks to bring in an option to play on the left side of his midfield trio.

“Incoming Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino wants Mount as part of his squad for next season, which leaves some optimism for a late development. But it might still depend on the two parties agreeing a new long-term deal, something that has not been able to be done since negotiations opened last summer.”

Vinicius is going nowhere

Vinicius Junior has reiterated his desire to stay at Real Madrid, despite suffering racist abuse in La Liga this season. The Brazilian has reportedly agreed to extend his contract at the Santiago Bernabeu until 2027 and the club are expected to announce the news soon. Vinicius Junior is “not thinking of leaving” and believes he is going to be the “superstar of Real Madrid’s latest sporting project”.

“AS has learned that Vinícius has reaffirmed his desire to stay in Madrid to his entourage, who have been seriously concerned about the ongoing racist abuse he has suffered and a lack of protection from referees this season.

“Last summer, the Brazilian agreed to sign a new deal with Real Madrid which will keep at the club until 2027. The club are expected to officially announce the extension soon, which will be another show of support towards a key player.”

West Ham to stick with Moyes

West Ham United are likely to keep their faith in David Moyes and will back him in the summer transfer window. There have been question marks over Moyes’ long-term future at the London Stadium and he is set for a meeting with the club hierarchy at the end of the season. However, the former Everton and Manchester United boss is expected to stay in the dugout and build on the success of this season.

“Checks have previously been made on Paulo Fonseca, Brendan Rodgers, Graham Potter, Marco Silva and Ange Postecoglou as potential replacements for Moyes.

“One potential replacement for Rice is Palhinha, who has impressed for Fulham since joining them last summer. James Ward-Prowse, who is expected to leave Southampton following their relegation, is another option for West Ham in midfield.

“Moyes will also be keen to strengthen on the left wing and West Ham have registered an interest in Barnes. The 25-year-old has a valuation of at least £50m but he could be cheaper if Leicester are relegated on Sunday.”