Daily Star

Harry Kane was a man in demand in the summer of 2023 when he finally left Tottenham, with Manchester United among those desperate to prise him away from north London

Ultimately, it was the prospect of trophies that lured Harry Kane to Bayern Munich.

During his time at Tottenham, Kane had established himself as one of Europe's elite forwards, attracting attention from all the top clubs. In 2021, Kane pulled out all the stops in an attempt to secure a move to Manchester City, even going so far as to publicly express his wish to depart Spurs during a golf game with Gary Neville.

However, it would be another two years before Bayern shelled out £100m to whisk him away from north London. Despite Bayern clinching the deal, Manchester United had been quietly plotting a move for the England captain over the years.

When Erik ten Hag first took the helm at United, the Mirror stated the Dutchman had earmarked Kane as one of his initial transfer targets. But the timing wasn't right for Kane, who had set his focus on becoming Spurs' all-time leading scorer.

Furthermore, if the England captain were to leave, it would have to be for a club ready to compete for major honours immediately, not one in the midst of a rebuild or transition. After surpassing Sir Jimmy Greaves' Spurs record the following February, United believed they had the perfect window to sign Kane.

Spurs ended the season outside the top four in a campaign that saw Antonio Conte given the boot, while United had just lifted the League Cup, reached the FA Cup final and secured third place. Kane had also boldly declared his ambition to smash Alan Shearer's record of 260 Premier League goals, hinting he's not keen on a move away from English football.

With City revelling in Erling Haaland's prowess and Liverpool snapping up Cody Gakpo, a switch to United seemed the only viable option within the Premier League. The situation looked more favourable than a year earlier when Kane was hesitant about joining United due to their woes under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick.

The Red Devils had slumped to sixth place, marking their lowest points haul in 32 years and were also trophyless for the fifth season running. Kane's itch to leave Spurs was fuelled by his hunger for silverware, but at that specific point, Tottenham appeared closer to clinching a title than United did.

The England striker had resolved to only exit Spurs for a club that was a serious contender for major honours immediately, rather than one undergoing a rebuild. Despite a stellar final season at Tottenham, their eighth-place finish signalled that Kane's days in N17 were numbered.

Rumours swirled that Kane's agents had a "secret meeting" with Paris Saint-Germain chiefs, who were eyeing a deal. PSG's transfer guru Luis Campos was reportedly engaged in an "informal conversation" about Kane's prospects, as per Foot Mercato.

During that period, PSG were shifting their transfer strategy and aimed to offload Lionel Messi and Neymar to cultivate a younger and revamped squad. A transfer did not culminate, most likely because PSG were in a rebuild - and Bayern capitalised.

Amidst the swirling gossip of a potential switch to German soil at the time, former Liverpool ace Danny Murphy encouraged Kane to seize the chance with Bayern. Penning his thoughts for the Daily Mail, Murphy said: "If Bayern Munich come calling this summer, he should go. It would be hugely sad if a player of his quality finished [his career] without winning a trophy. It's something he himself would regret after retirement."

He added: "Going abroad might cost him Alan Shearer's Premier League goals record but, in the grand scheme of things, that shouldn't put him off. In five years, we could be talking about Harry Kane, Champions League winner with multiple Bundesliga titles and cup medals.

"I'm sure Kane will get other offers. Manchester United have been mentioned, but he hasn't got time to be part of a team that is building. If he was going to leave, it would be primarily to win trophies from the get-go, which would make Bayern his best option."

Kane disregarded any further interest from United to seal his £100m transfer to Bayern. The German giants then failed to win a trophy for the first time in 10 years, despite Kane hammering in a record haul of 36 goals and eight assists in his debut Bundesliga campaign.

However, Kane triumphed in the Bundesliga under Vincent Kompany's leadership, bagging 38 goals and providing 13 assists in 47 games on his way to his first major trophy this year.

Bryan Mbeumo is one of the most in-demand forwards in the Premier League, and amid interest from Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, his previous comments may shed light on his next destination

Bryan Mbeumo previously expressed his desire to compete in the "biggest competitions" for "the best clubs" amid interest from Manchester United and Tottenham.

The Brentford star is tipped for a big-money move this summer following a stellar 20-goal season in the Premier League. The 25-year-old has had his most campaign season yet, having joined the Bees from French outfit Troyes six years ago for a then-record £5.8million.

Fast-forward to the current transfer window, and he's attracting whopping offers over £55 million from both the Red Devils and Spurs.

Earlier in the month, it seemed like Mbeumo was headed for Old Trafford, with reports indicating he had 'prioritised' a switch to United, and that agreeing on personal terms wouldn't be an issue. But Thomas Frank's departure from Brentford to take over at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has thrown a spanner into United's plans.

With Frank now at the helm of Spurs, it appears he's keen to reunite with Mbeumo in North London. Tottenham have surged ahead in the race for Mbeumo's services, slapping down a hefty £70m bid – a clear £15m more than what United had on the table.

It's now believed that Mbeumo is 'more open' to remaining in London, and remarks from the player last May could give Frank's new team an advantage in the chase. Interest from elite clubs in Mbeumo dates back to the summer of 2024, when he netted a commendable nine league goals, attracting attention from Liverpool and Newcastle.

Mbeumo opened up about the transfer buzz around him to L'Equipe, saying: "I have spent five years at Brentford, at a club that has allowed me to grow and pass a milestone but yes, I would like to play in the biggest competitions, at the best clubs. It is tantalising to see some big clubs interested in me."

Despite the interest, the winger remained with Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium last summer. His ambition to compete in top tournaments lends credence to Tottenham's current pursuit of his talents.

Amorim's United will miss out on European football next season after ending the campaign in 15th place, whereas Spurs are set to participate in the Champions League.

Tottenham's victory over United in the Europa League final, which secured their first trophy in 17 years and a spot in UEFA's premier competition, adds to their appeal. Mbeumo did specify, however, that his goal is to play in events like the Champions League with the 'best clubs.'.

Despite finishing just above Spurs in the Premier League this term, United boast a more illustrious history, with a joint record 20 top-flight league titles and numerous other honours that eclipse Tottenham's achievements.

Mbeumo himself has given few clues as to his preference, though a post on Instagram when it was announced that head coach Frank would be leaving was quite revealing.

The forward posted pictures of himself and Frank, captioned only with two prayer emojis, possibly hinting at a desire to reunite - or perhaps just wishing his former boss good luck.

Regardless, the allure of Champions League football and the prospect of playing under the coach who guided him to stardom could give Tottenham the upper hand in this bidding war.

Although United still cannot be discounted. The latest reports suggest that the Red Devils are relaxed about the persuit of Mbeumo, with a new bid for the Brentford star expected soon.

Manchester United and Tottenham are heating up their pursuit to sign Bryan Mbeumo, as the winger is set to leave Brentford in the summer transfer window

Bryan Mbeumo looks set to leave Brentford this summer with both Manchester United and Tottenham interested in his signature.

The 25-year-old has had a stellar season, netting 20 goals and providing eight assists, which has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs. United have been tracking Mbeumo since the start of the summer transfer window, as Ruben Amorim seeks to strengthen his squad for the 2025/26 season after a disappointing 15th-place finish.

However, their initial bid of up to £55million was turned down by Brentford, who value Mbeumo higher. Despite this setback, it's reported that United are preparing another bid for the Cameroon international, who has earned 22 caps for his country.

The situation has been further complicated by Thomas Frank's move to Tottenham. Frank, who spent seven successful years at Brentford, was recently appointed as Spurs' new manager following the dismissal of Ange Postecoglou.

With Tottenham finishing even lower than United in 17th place, Frank is eager to bolster his attacking options. Spurs made their first offer last week, which was reportedly higher than what United had proposed.

But United's pursuit of more firepower may soon get a boost with reports suggesting that Mbeumo favours a move to Old Trafford over Tottenham. The MEN reports Mbeumo has told those close to him that United is his preferred destination, despite Spurs' interest and the connection with former boss, the Lilywhites are reportedly "going hard" for Mbeumo.

United have already spent £62.5m on Matheus Cunha as Ruben Amorim appears to have the trust of Old Trafford chiefs to revamp the squad he took over from Erik ten Hag, and Mbeumo is seen as the ideal fit for Amorim's 3-4-2-1 formation.

Speaking on the transfer gossip, Mbeumo acknowledged the situation, telling Sky Sports, "It (the transfer speculation) is a bit new for me I would say. I think it can be the life of a footballer and you need to accept it.

"It's been my best season so far in the Premier League. And even collectively, I think we did play very good games. I think we've been unlucky to chase the Europe spot, but I think it's been a fantastic season."

Should Spurs miss out on their primary target, they see Bournemouth winger Semenyo as an attractive option, able to fill multiple roles in attack. After his brilliant 2024/25 season, where he notched up 11 goals and six assists, Bournemouth have reportedly slapped a £60 million price tag on their Ghanaian talisman.

Bryan Mbeumo is reportedly considering a move to Tottenham after seeing his former Brentford boss Thomas Frank take over in North London, but the attacker is said to have already agreed to join Manchester United

Brentford are turning the screws on Manchester United to cough up their £60million valuation for Bryan Mbeumo by allegedly entering transfer chats with Tottenham Hotspur.

Spurs gaffer Thomas Frank is set to persuade Mbeumo to stick around in London, banking on their solid six-year rapport at Brentford.

Earlier this month, The Athletic reported that Ruben Amorim's top transfer target had his heart set on a move to Old Trafford, despite rival interest from Arsenal, Newcastle United and Spurs.

However, Sky Sports suggest that Mbeumo has since warmed to the idea of a switch to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium under his old boss.

This news sent shockwaves through the fanbase, as United have yet to come back to the table after Brentford knocked back an initial offer of £45million plus £10m in add-ons.

But recent reports have cooled the frenzy. Sky Germany reckon that Frank will try to tempt Mbeumo over to North London after stepping into Ange Postecoglou's shoes.

That being said, it's believed Mbeumo has already given the thumbs up to a United move, even going so far as to verbally agree terms on his contract in Manchester, reports the Express.

The Red Devils are reportedly still confident they'll seal the deal eventually, adding the Cameroon international to Matheus Cunha in Amorim's forward line.

United announced the signing of Cunha on Thursday, snapping up the 26-year-old in a £62.5m deal from Wolves following a stellar campaign.

Amorim is also rumoured to be on the hunt for a striker after Mbeumo. However, a move for Viktor Gyokeres seems unlikely as the Sporting ace has turned down a reunion.

Alternatives linked include Napoli's Victor Osimhen, Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace and Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike.

United's early emphasis on beefing up their attack is hardly surprising given they only managed 44 goals in the Premier League last season.

Mbeumo and Cunha alone netted a combined total of 35. The Red Devils' joint top-scorers, Bruno Fernandes and Amad, could only muster eight each.

Rasmus Hojlund only found the back of the net four times in the Premier League, while Joshua Zirkzee managed just three following his £36.5m transfer from Bologna.

Manchester United could be beaten in the race to sign Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo as Tottenham launch a bid as Thomas Frank looks to reunite with the winger

Spurs have made a £70million bid in an attempt to outdo Manchester United for Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo.

The north London club's offer, which includes £65million upfront and £5million in add-ons, is £10million more than United's, according to the Mirror. New Spurs manager Thomas Frank is keen on bringing 25-year-old Mbeumo to north London.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is eager to secure the Cameroon international as a marquee signing for Ange Postecoglu's successor. However, Mbeumo, who netted 20 Premier League goals for Brentford last season, still favours a move to United.

Frank hopes to lure him to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with the promise of a reunion and Champions League football. The Danish coach has worked with Mbeumo since his transfer from Troyes to Brentford in 2019.

United have already tabled two offers for Mbeumo, the latest being a £60million package comprising £55million plus £5million in add-ons last week. Brentford rejected this bid, leaving the door open for Spurs to potentially clinch the deal with their higher offer.

At present, it seems unlikely that United will exceed the £60million they've already offered for their top target, Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha.

Despite the potential for change, Brentford believe they are justified in maintaining their £70million valuation of Mbeumo. Last season, only three players - Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak and Erling Haaland - outscored him. His seven assists also played a crucial role in securing a top-half finish for the west London club.

Where United might still have an advantage is in terms of wages. The salary on offer at Old Trafford ranges from £150,000 to £175,000 per week, with bonuses potentially pushing Mbeumo's total package up to £200,000 per week.

To match this, Spurs would need to break their strict wage structure, with Mbeumo expected to earn around £130,000 to £140,000 per week. Even with bonuses, this would still fall short of what he could earn at United.

Mbeumo's outstanding performance last season for Brentford alleviated concerns that the club would struggle after star striker Ivan Toney left for Saudi Arabia on Transfer Deadline Day a year ago.

With just a year remaining on his contract, plus an option for an additional year, the Bees are resigned to the fact that Mbeumo feels his time at the GTech Stadium has come to an end and he is ready to move on.

OPINION: Tottenham have had their ups and downs when it comes to the success of managers, but there is one big thing all those who have been successful there have in common

Thomas Frank stands every chance of being a great manager for Tottenham and before you start getting angry, take a beat, the numbers back this up.

The reason I'm right is simple, there’s one big thing Frank has that puts modern history on his side: like the best managers at White Hart Lane in the Premier League era, he has great hair.

Hair? HAIR?! I hear you screaming from the office toilet you’re hiding in. I bet you’re fighting the urge slam the door of that cubicle just thinking about Spurs managers’ barnet, aren't you? Go on, tip the watercooler over I dare you, but you might want to listen to this first.

The fact is, of the 19 managers (or management partnerships) the north Londoners have had since the beginning of the Premier League, only four have had a win record of over 50%.

Let that sink in. Barely a quarter of managers in the modern era with a positive league record. Appalling. But that’s where the genius of Thomas Frank comes in, here's why.

In North London there is an undeniable correlation between the fame and consideration given to one's barnet (transplanted or otherwise) and results on the pitch.

Take for instance André Villas-Boas - he's known for many things: Coming from Chelsea, sure. Entering the Dakar Rally, maybe a bit more niche, but yeah why not. Thick head of hair? Big time.

You say ‘André Villas-Boas’ I say ‘good lid’. And the second thing I think of? Having a win record over 50%.

It’s undeniable, the man’s locks were and still are thoughtful and manicured, exploring boundaries between formality and playful unkemptness. No surprise then, that he had a 54% league win record at the helm in N17.

Coincidence? Maybe. But wait, there's more. Next in the queue with a 56% win record is the club’s best manager of recent years, Mauricio Pochettino.

He’s still used as the benchmark for others who have follow since. In Harringey, there are two main eras: BM and AM. Since his departure in 2019, every matchday chat on the Tottenham High Road, every spittle-laced shout in the ear at the Beehive or small talk in the local barbers has been in the context of “since Poch”.

What did he have, when you really think about it, beyond a humble affability and steely underdog softness? A thick mop of dark brown hair with a neat quiff even Jan Vertonghen would be proud of, that's what. (As an aside, it’s no surprise the likes of 'Super Jan' and Michael Dawson are club legends based on this metric).

Antonio Conte’s on this list too. Sure, he wasn’t a fan favourite, but with the second highest league record in the club’s Prem history (57%) those floppy locks seem hard to argue with.

Conte has the air of a Roman general, leading some far flung-campaign into the dense forests of Britannia, spreading the rule of Italia '90 into these barbaric, hooligan lands.

There have been some articles online about a possible transplant, although he’s never spoken about it. But who cares? He won a lot of league games, and when he did it, his hair was dense, a straight mop of results-driven endeavour.

And then there was Tim Sherwood. He’s 56 now but you wouldn’t know it thanks to his lid. It’s the envy even of school kids yet to feel the breeze creeping through the tops of their scalps, all effortless quiffs and easy-going mess. His win record? 59%, the best in the era, the high watermark for Spurs managers in the league.

Think about all that, really let it soak in, you know it makes sense. Then think about what Thomas Frank looks like. He’ll be alright.

Bryan Mbeumo has a big decision to make over his future as Manchester United and Tottenham battle to sign the Brentford forward in a £60million transfer

Ex-Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster has urged Bryan Mbeumo to opt for a switch to Tottenham over a possible £60 million transfer to United.

The tug-of-war for the sought-after Brentford forward has intensifies with the Red Devils already sealing a summer signing in the shape of Matheus Cunha from Wolves.

However, Tottenham are ready to disrupt the party as Brentford coach Thomas Frank is likely to join the Spurs as Ange Postecoglou's replacement next week and wants Mbeumo to follow.

Frank would give Mbeumo the assurance of working together, though United has had prolonged discussions with the 25-year-old to convince him towards a move to Old Trafford.

The Cameroonian footballer has a weighty decision ahead. Manchester United can offer more wealth, but Spurs have an edge over Champions League access and continued collaboration with Frank.

Foster has now jumped into the debate, proposing Mbeumo snubs his former club and links up with Spurs.

He has faith that the Spurs hold greater promise of a victory next season under Frank. Foster said on his Fozcast: "I would say that if you want to be part of something that's going to make you a better footballer and work hard and be part of a team, then go to Spurs with Thomas Frank.

"If you are happy picking up your wages knowing that there's going to be an awful lot more pressure, a lot more eyes on you, a lot more judgement and failure is just part of what they do, then you'd go to Manchester United," reports the Mirror.

He added: "I'm not questioning Bryan Mbeumo about his ability, about his mentality or about what he's like as a person.

"There's nothing to show me that I should have any worries about it. Whoever he goes and plays for, I think he would improve them and he gets into the starting line-up.

Big Ange has paid a big price for providing Tottenham with one of their biggest moments.

Want to know how fickle football is in 2025? Then take a look at the recent life of Ange Postecoglou. A matter of weeks ago (20 days to be precise), he led Tottenham to Europa League glory in Bilbao.

Okay, his side only beat Manchester United. But that’s not the point. Spurs chairman Daniel Levy sat in the posh seats looking like the cat that had got the cream.

What he was actually beaming about was the guarantee of a place in the Champions League next season and a £100m jackpot. Tottenham’s first trophy in almost two decades was just the icing on the cake.

And within no time the brutal and ruthless Levy has shoved Postecoglou’s face right in it by sacking him. A real life Greek tragedy for the man from Athens. But is it?

Postecoglou had dug his own grave in the months that preceded his moment in the Spanish sunshine. A Premier League finish of 17th following an astonishing 22 defeats had seen to this.

So Levy decided to judge Postecoglou on the long term damage, instead of the short term gain. Which is ironic really, considering he is the man who has overseen years of woeful transfer business.

Dealings which have seen him sell his club’s best ever players to the highest bidders. Which begs the question - what does Levy even want from a manager?

He is now sitting on silverware, a small fortune and a place in the Champions League. But this isn’t enough.

Manchester United have made Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo one of their top transfer targets this summer, with the Red Devils having already seen a bid rejected for the 25-year-old

Manchester United are not resting on their laurels in the transfer market.

The Red Devils are hot on the heels of Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo after snapping up Matheus Cunha from Wolves.

It's a pivotal summer for the Reds, with Ruben Amorim finally getting his chance to mould the squad he took over from Erik ten Hag late last year.

The need for a major shake-up is glaring after a lacklustre 15th-place finish in the Premier League and uninspiring showings in both domestic and European cups.

With this in mind, Daily Star Sport has delved into the latest buzz and whispers around United's chase for Mbeumo, as the first transfer window of the summer nears its close.

Tottenham Hotspur 'join the hunt'

United's bid to land Mbeumo hit a snag on Saturday, with rumours that Premier League competitors Tottenham have thrown their hat in the ring for the Cameroon international.

The Mirror reports that Thomas Frank has let it be known to the London club that he wants to go head-to-head with United for the £60 million signing, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Spurs are currently shopping for a new gaffer, having shown Ange Postecoglou the door, despite his Europa League final triumph. Brentford chief Frank is now the front-runner to fill his shoes and seems keen to bring one of his star players along to north London.

First offer knocked back

Earlier this week, it was reported that United had tabled their initial bid for Brentford's Mbeumo, a cool £55 million, made up of a solid £45 million plus an extra £10 million in add-ons.

Sky Sports revealed that the Bees promptly knocked back the offer, valuing the 25 year old at a hefty sum north of £60 million.

The report also highlighted that Brentford are open to negotiations and United are still in the game, hell-bent on sealing the deal. Mbeumo has long been on Old Trafford's radar, with the coaching team seeing him as a perfect fit for Amorim's tactics and style.

Bryan Mbeumo's preference

United's chase has ramped up after positive signals from Mbeumo's side indicating his interest in a move up North.

The Athletic reported that Mbeumo has set his sights on United as his top choice, despite other Premier League clubs showing interest.

The winger had a cracking season with Brentford in 2024/25, netting 20 goals and providing eight assists across all competitions. His ability to adapt adds to his allure, although he's most commonly seen tearing up the right wing.

Former Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou has shown his true colours with a statement after he was relieved of his duties in north London

Ange Postecoglou has shown his true colours in a statement after he was sacked by Tottenham Hotspur.

Postecoglou, 59, was sacked by Spurs on Friday (June 6) after guiding his side to the promised land in the Europa League. However, even ending Spurs' trophy drought couldn't gloss over their torrid Premier League season.

Tottenham finished just one spot above the relegation zone - and after a week of deliberation Daniel Levy has decided it was time to get rid of the Aussie.

In a statement, he said: "When I reflect on my time as Manager of Tottenham Hotspur my overriding emotion is one of pride.

"The opportunity to lead one of England's historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime. Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget.

"That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream. There were many challenges to overcome and plenty of noise that comes with trying to accomplish what many said was not possible.

"We have also laid foundations that mean this club should not have to wait 7 more years for their next success. I have enormous faith in this group of players and know there is much more potential and growth in them.

"I sincerely want to thank those who are the lifeblood of the club, the supporters. I know there were some difficult times but I always felt that they wanted me to succeed and that gave me all the motivation I needed to push on.

"It's important to acknowledge the hard working people at Spurs who gave me encouragement on a daily basis.

"And finally, I want to thank those who were with me every day for the last two years. A fantastic group of young men who are now legends of this football club and the brilliant coaches who never once doubted we could do something special.

"We are forever connected. Audere est Facere."