Real Madrid in U-turn over Kai Havertz as Harry Kane is made an 'urgent' target

Real Madrid have pulled out of the running to sign Chelsea forward Kai Havertz, according to reports in Spain.

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Madrid are in the market to bolster their attacking options following Karim Benzema’s surprise decision to join Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad on a lucrative two-year deal.

It’s understood that Madrid made an initial enquiry for Havertz, while the Germany international is open to leaving Chelsea this summer.

But according to Marca, Madrid are no longer considering a move for Havertz and have instead made the signing of Harry Kane their top priority.

The report claims that Madrid’s hierarchy and Carlo Ancelotti are both in agreement that Kane is the ideal replacement for Benzema, however, the Spanish club are unwilling to pay €100 million (£86m) for the Tottenham striker.

It’s claimed that Madrid are treating the signing of Kane as a ‘matter of urgency’ and are hopeful that an agreement can be reached for around €80m (£68.8m).

Kane has just one year left on his contract with Tottenham and Madrid are said to be wary of overpaying for the England captain, who is likely to be available on a free transfer next year if he does not move this summer.

Madrid face strong competition from Manchester United, who have also made Kane their priority signing.

However, Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy remains hopeful that Kane will see out his career with Spurs.

‘He can absolutely win a trophy at Spurs, but being a legend is also important,’ Levy said in an interview with the Cambridge Union.

‘The fact that he’s the top scorer for Tottenham Hotspur, he’s making history. I hope one day there is a statue of Harry Kane outside our stadium.’

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