Graeme Souness warns Man City that £100m decision has set undesirable "precedent"

Graeme Souness insists Manchester City 'got it wrong' by signing Jack Grealish and not waiting for Harry Kane.

Pep Guardiola's side were engaged in a protracted saga to sign the England international last summer, but proved unable to convince Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy to sell the club's prized asset. Kane was reportedly keen on a move to the Premier League champions, but the clubs were unable to agree a fee for the striker who had three years left on his contract.

Kane later insisted he was 'hurt' by suggestions he boycotted the early days of pre-season training as a result of his frustration over negotiations. The 28-year-old has rediscovered his best form in recent weeks under Antonio Conte, and there have been suggestions the striker could be happy to remain in the capital as a results of the team's improvement in recent weeks.

City were however successful in brokering a £100m deal for Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish after meeting his lofty release clause. The attacking midfielder enjoyed a bit-part role for the Three Lions at Euro 2020, but has struggled to meet expectations in his debut campaign at the Etihad.

Guardiola has regularly defended the £100m man, and the 26-year-old has registered five goals and three assists so far. City now look set to finally land a striker, with reports indicating the club have agreed to activate the £62.3m release clause and sign Borussia Dortmund star Erling Braut Haaland.

Souness believes City made a mistake in committing to the deal for Grealish, questioning the difference the former Aston Villa playmaker has made to the side. The ex- Liverpool manager believes Guardiola's side 'would be out of sight' in the title race if they had Kane in their ranks.

Haaland has