An England star has responded after a Barcelona presidential candidate pledged to sign him, with Marcus Rashford's future in Spain still unknown. Xavier Vilajoana has accused Joan Laporta's board of “lying” about the club's financial situation and called for transparency as he pursues taking over the position.
A role within Barcelona's hierarchy is nothing to scoff at and, while the club appears well placed to continue their domestic superiority over Real Madrid with Hansi Flick in the dugout - with a chance to return to the top of La Liga this weekend - the focus is also on decision-makers to help them rediscover their potential in the Champions League.
Vilajoana is one of four candidates running in the upcoming election on March 15 and was bullish when discussing his plans to take the club to another level. While Rashford has been performing steadily in Catalonia, it is Harry Kane who sits at the top of the potential new Barcelona president's transfer wishlist.
Barcelona Presidential Candidate Outlines Harry Kane Transfer Plans
England's Harry Kane playing against Serbia
Kane, 32, could replace Robert Lewandowski, with the Polish striker's contract expiring in the summer as interest from the MLS ramps up and admiration for his potential successor is widespread. "We've already made some contact, and I think he's a player who would be a great fit, pending his contractual situation: it's Harry Kane," Vilajoana told ESPN.
"Kane is a centre forward who would fit in perfectly with our style of play. He's a striker who is capable of dropping back to link up with his teammates. He is also capable of playing as a pure No 9, a killer, a finisher. He is a player who brings mobility. He also performs well when teams sit deep. He would add a lot of value to Barcelona's game."
"I also know that he likes Barcelona," he continued. "In fact, there are very few players who don't like Barcelona. So it's a matter of talking about it, obviously."
Kane Responds to Transfer Rumours
harry kane
As per GOAL, Kane claims to be unaware of any discussions taking place with the Blaugrana. He is pleased to hear that his skill set is so highly regarded by another European heavyweight, but insists that no transfer plans have been drawn up. He said when asked about links to Barca:
”I haven’t heard anything about it. My father and brother handle everything, but they haven’t said anything to me. As I’ve already said, I’m very happy here at Bayern Munich. I’m focused on this season and my time at Bayern. I take it as a compliment.”
Bayern Munich forward Luis Diaz celebrates scoring against PSG
It was revealed at one stage that £57 million ($77m) release clauses exist in Kane’s contract. Bayern’s supervisory board member Uli Hoeness has since told Bild: “I'd like to make that clear. Harry is a stroke of luck for us. Because his release clause for the summer of 2026 has now expired and his contract runs until summer 2027, we are currently under no pressure.”
Senior figures in Munich have revealed that contract talks are being planned with Kane. Sporting director Christoph Freund has said: “He still has a year-and-a-half left on his contract. He feels extremely comfortable here. We're not stressing about it. He should continue as he is and continue to feel so comfortable with his family in Munich. Then he can stay in Munich for a long time.”