Manchester City are once again being linked with a sensational move for Harry Kane after former winger Shaun Wright-Phillips suggested the Bayern Munich striker could form a formidable partnership with Erling Haaland at the Etihad. Speaking to BestBettingSites, Wright-Phillips argued that Kane’s qualities would make him an ideal fit for Pep Guardiola’s squad — rekindling a storyline that has hovered around City ever since their failed pursuit in 2021.
Wright-Phillips’ comments, reported by City Xtra, come during a period of renewed discussion around Haaland, whose influence, development and growing maturity continue to dominate City’s news cycle. The Norwegian forward has publicly spoken about how much he enjoys linking with technically gifted creators such as Rayan Cherki — a factor that only adds intrigue to any speculation involving Kane, arguably the most complete all-round centre-forward in Europe.
Kane’s outstanding form in Germany has strengthened those conversations. His campaigns at Bayern have underlined why he is widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers of his generation: relentless finishing, elite playmaking and a level of consistency that has carried Bayern to the summit of both the Bundesliga and Champions League standings.
City, meanwhile, are committed to refining their squad strategically after spending much of last season battling for a top-four position. Guardiola’s side remain competitive on multiple fronts, but the club continues to assess opportunities that could elevate their attacking depth. Wright-Phillips believes Kane would not only thrive in Guardiola’s system, but could operate both with and without Haaland in the starting XI.
“If you were Harry Kane you could win more silverware at Barcelona or Real Madrid, why would you turn that down?” Wright-Phillips said. “But if he wants that record in the Premier League, then I think Manchester City would welcome him with open arms.”
He went on to suggest that a dual-striker approach could work: “Even if they only play one striker, they can rotate with Haaland. But I think they can play together, because Kane is an exceptional No.10. As soon as Kane turns on the ball, Haaland would run in behind — and Kane would find him.”
City’s interest in Kane is not new. The club explored a move for him four years ago before shifting focus to Haaland, who has since become the centrepiece of Guardiola’s attack. Any future deal would therefore have to complement Haaland rather than replace him — a dynamic that adds complexity to any hypothetical pursuit.
Strategically, City’s short-term priorities remain elsewhere. The club continue to monitor the right-back market closely and may seek midfield reinforcement depending on outgoings next summer. Several squad players face uncertain futures, and City are keen to avoid moves that would disrupt the long-term tactical structure Guardiola has set in place.
However, the idea of recruiting someone of Kane’s calibre — even as a rotation or dual-threat option — is difficult to dismiss entirely. With Haaland evolving, and new creative influences such as Cherki emerging, the possibility of pairing two elite goalscorers is an appealing scenario for supporters and pundits alike.
For Kane, the situation remains stable. The England captain appears settled at Bayern under Vincent Kompany, and the German champions have shown no indication that they would consider mid-season negotiations. Nonetheless, Wright-Phillips’ comments highlight how quickly the transfer landscape can shift when high-profile forwards are involved — particularly with a player whose ambition and record-chasing mentality are well known.
For now, the suggestion remains speculative, but City will continue to monitor the wider striker market. With the Manchester Evening News reporting increased transfer planning across town and multiple Premier League clubs expected to act decisively in 2025, the next year could open unexpected pathways — and Kane’s name is unlikely to disappear from the discussion any time soon.