Arsene Wenger praises Man City as failed Harry Kane transfer explained

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has defended Manchester City's decision not to put all of their eggs in one basket last summer and complete the big-money signing of Harry Kane alongside that of Jack Grealish.

City, who put one foot in the semi-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday evening, beating Atletico Madrid 1-0 in the first-leg of their quarter-final showdown at the Etihad Stadium, were desperate to sign Kane last summer to secure a long-term replacement for Sergio Aguero. However, despite their best efforts, City were unable to meet Tottenham Hotspur's financial demands, meaning Kane stayed in north London.

Instead, City invested a record-breaking £100million in signing Grealish to beef up their attacking options. The England international had excelled in his last season at Aston Villa and was in the form of his life.

READ MORE: Phil Foden issues emphatic response to Pep Guardiola challenge for Man City stars

However, he has struggled to live up to expectations this season, scoring just four goals and racking up three assists. City's decision to invest £100million in Grealish has attracted criticism throughout the season, raising endless opinions that the club should have tried to sign Kane instead.

Unlike Villa, however, Spurs were not willing to sell Kane. Chairman Daniel Levy refused to entertain offers for the England captain and a transfer never came close to materialising despite the player pushing.

But despite the criticism that they have faced, former Gunners chief Wenger defended their decision during a live TV debate with Richard Keys. Wenger was asked why City didn't push harder to sign Kane and he issued a defiant, but very clear answer.

Wenger told beIN Sports: "I would say up until now