Barcelona’s Reported Interest in Kane
FC Barcelona has reportedly renewed its interest in signing Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane, initiating contact with his representatives. This development comes as Kane is currently focused on England‘s progress in the 2026 World Cup, where he has scored three goals in the group stage.
According to reports, Barcelona has not yet made a firm offer to either Kane’s camp or Bayern. However, the club is said to be exploring the possibility of a transfer that could see Kane join them next season. Kane’s current contract with Bayern is set to expire in 2027, meaning he will enter the final 12 months of his deal this week.
While Kane is reportedly keen to extend his contract until 2030, Bayern is said to prefer an extension of only two additional years. This contractual situation could potentially allow Barcelona to acquire Kane for a reduced fee, rather than Bayern risking losing him as a free agent in 2027.
Kane’s Current Focus and Bayern’s Stance
Harry Kane, at 32 years old, is fully concentrated on England‘s campaign in the knockout rounds of the World Cup in North America. His club situation is expected to be addressed once England‘s involvement in the tournament concludes.
Bayern Munich, on the other hand, remains optimistic about Kane’s long-term stay at the club. His representatives are reportedly open to discussing a new deal, with formal talks anticipated to take place after the 2026 World Cup. Kane is considered a crucial player in Bayern‘s attacking strategy.
Despite the reported interest from Barcelona, previous indications suggested that Kane was content in Bavaria and did not wish to move, even with his contract approaching its final year. Bayern‘s coach, Thomas Tuchel, has publicly expressed reliance on Kane, stating that the team depends on him without over-relying.
Potential Impact and Comparison to Lewandowski
Should a transfer materialise, Harry Kane is seen as a player who could fit well into FC Barcelona‘s system. His link-up play and passing abilities are highlighted as attributes that could benefit players like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, potentially boosting the team’s goalscoring figures.
Barcelona has previously signed an experienced striker from Bayern in 2022, acquiring Robert Lewandowski. At the time, Lewandowski was nearing his 34th birthday, and Barcelona reportedly spent $57 million (€50 million) to secure his services. Lewandowski is set to leave the club as a free agent on June 30, having lifted three La Liga titles and scored 120 goals in 193 appearances.
The success of the Lewandowski transfer is cited as a potential precedent for a move involving Kane, who is also described as a professional still performing at a high level. Another player, Julian Alvarez, was also reportedly considered by Barcelona, but his reported price tag, which increased due to a Real Madrid bid, was a significant obstacle.
Bayern is also managing other player movements, with Leon Goretzka expected to leave this summer and Alexander Nübel expressing a desire to join Beşiktaş. Meanwhile, Nicolas Jackson, who was on loan at Bayern, is set to return to Chelsea and could be a target for AC Milan if deemed surplus.
Espanyol has inquired about Bryan Zaragoza, but his salary at Bayern presents a hurdle, with Bayern planning to sell him despite his contract running until 2029. Yann Sommer, a former Bayern keeper, is in talks with Club Brugge after becoming a free agent.
Source: forbes.com