Harry Kane: Man City and Tottenham 40m apart in transfer discussions for striker – Paper Round

‘Kane Wars’

Paper Round’s view: It’s been a while since we’ve had one of these stories, and the England captain no less. A wise point has been raised that perhaps training runs the risk of injury and therefore could affect Spurs’ chances of cashing in if Kane were to get injured. Given his glass ankles, that could be on the money.

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Man Utd have 12 months to convince Haaland

Paper Round’s view: All sensible, it would seem. It appears unlikely Haaland will move this summer unless Dortmund lower their asking price knowing he’ll go for even lower in 2022. For United, then, the mission is clear. Impress now and strengthen even further later down the line.

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Messi deal – soon

Paper Round’s view: No surprises here, but surely relief for Barca, and their fans, who must have feared the worst last season. They will of course need to improve their squad still if they are to have a chance of competing for the Champions League, and knowing Messi is there for the duration could help convince some players – if Barca then come up with the desired wage demands.

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Villa up JWP bid

Paper Round’s view: Approaches are one thing, but the prospect of Southampton ever eventually accepting an offer is another entirely. The clubs are rivals in the sense of current aspirations, and so the Saints have no interest in selling one of their prize assets to Villa – that is unless the offer drastically increases.