FC Barcelona has reportedly renewed its interest in acquiring Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane, initiating discussions with his representatives. This development comes as the England captain is currently focused on his country’s progression in the 2026 World Cup.
Reports from SPORT and the Daily Mail indicate that Barcelona has contacted Kane’s camp to explore a potential transfer. However, SPORT also suggests that Barcelona has not yet submitted a formal offer to either Kane’s representatives or Bayern.
Kane, who is 32, has been a key player for England in the World Cup, scoring three goals in the group stage. This includes a brace in a 4-2 victory over Croatia and another goal against Panama. England is set to face DR Congo in the last 32 of the tournament.
Despite the transfer speculation, Kane is said to be concentrating on England’s performance in the knockout rounds in North America. His club situation is expected to be addressed once England’s World Cup campaign concludes.
Kane’s Contract Situation and Barcelona’s Strategy
Bayern Munich is reportedly optimistic about securing Harry Kane’s long-term stay, with his representatives open to discussing a new deal. Formal talks regarding an extension are anticipated after the 2026 World Cup. Kane’s current contract with Bayern is set to expire in 2027.
This means that Kane will enter the final 12 months of his contract with Bayern this week, making him eligible to leave as a free agent next summer. While Kane reportedly desires an extension until 2030, Bayern is said to prefer a two-year extension.
Barcelona may look to capitalise on this situation, potentially pushing Bayern to sell Kane for a reduced fee rather than risk losing him for free in 2027. The Catalan club has previously signed an experienced striker from Bayern, acquiring Robert Lewandowski in 2022 for $57 million (€50 million) when he was nearing his 34th birthday.
Lewandowski is set to depart Barcelona on June 30. During his time at the club, he lifted three La Liga titles and scored 120 goals in 193 appearances. Chicago Fire is reportedly his next destination.
Initial inquiries about Kane by Barcelona were met with a message that he was content in Bavaria and did not wish to move, despite his contract situation. However, Barcelona has not tabled a firm offer for Kane to either his camp or Bayern.
Alternative Striker Targets
In their search for a new striker to replace Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona has also considered other options. While Kane was initially a primary target, the club has reportedly shifted its focus to Julian Alvarez.
Alvarez has publicly expressed a desire to leave Atletico Madrid this summer. However, Atletico is reportedly reluctant to sell him, especially to a rival within La Liga. Alvarez has four years remaining on his contract, and Atletico has indicated that any interested club would need to trigger his €500 million release clause.
There were also reports that Alvarez had agreed to join FC Barcelona for five years, but his reported price tag, which increased due to a bid from Real Madrid, has been a significant obstacle. Barcelona has had a bid for Alvarez rejected by Atletico.
Harry Kane’s potential move to Barcelona is seen as a strategic fit due to his link-up play and passing abilities, which could benefit players like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.
Bayern Munich defender Josip Stanišić played 90 minutes as Croatia beat Panama 1-0.
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Source: forbes.com
As Latest News UK's Sports Reporter, Hannah Whitfield reports on tennis, cricket and athletics for readers across the country. She built her name covering the county circuit and Team GB at two Commonwealth Games. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from Loughborough University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Hannah lives in Bristol, where she plays club tennis and coaches a junior side. “Sport is at its best when you let the athletes tell the story.”