Erik ten Hag can repeat Sir Alex Ferguson trick for Manchester United with Harry Kane decision

With a place in the top-four still to secure and two major trophies to fight for, Erik ten Hag will be minded not to place too much focus on the summer transfer window but the Manchester United boss is all too aware of the need for a world-class striker.

The signing of Wout Weghorst on loan from Burnley in January was necessary - proven by the fact that Anthony Martial has not been available since - but to label it as successful would be stretching. Yes, United have won one major trophy with the Dutchman leading the line but two goals in 18 appearances is below what was expected.

As such, United have prioritised a proven goalscorer this summer as Ten Hag builds a squad fit for a Premier League title challenge. Victor Osimhen remains under consideration - rightly so, given his 21 goals in 23 league games has Napoli top of Serie A - while Randal Kolo Muani and Rasmus Hojlund are of interest, but Harry Kane has been earmarked as target No.1 and the Reds are hopeful of landing him.

ALSO READ: United's stance on six strikers ahead of the summer window

The 29-year-old will enter the final 12 months of his contract at Tottenham this summer but Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is expected to play hardball with his usual stubbornness. Nevertheless, United will push hard for the England international, seeing a proven Premier League goalscorer as an iron-clad option to the relative risk of talent from abroad.

And with good reason: Kane has scored at least 20 league goals in six of his last nine seasons at Spurs, and averaged just over 22 each campaign in that time. A move to Old Trafford would demand little bedding in, with the England international already well-tuned to the rigours of Premier League football.

It's the kind of decision