Bayern Munich see Tottenham's Harry Kane as perfect fit for striker role but won't overspend on transfer

• Kane's contract expires in 2024
• Bayern identified him as perfect striker
• 2022-23 spend means purse strings are tight

WHAT HAPPENED? Bayern's outlay for 2022-23 stands at a reported €145 million (£129m/$155m), leaving them unwilling to increase expenditure dramatically next campaign despite their preference for a more recognised No.9. While Julen Nagelsmann's side sit atop the Bundesliga and have the advantage over Paris Saint-Germain in their Champions League last-16 tie, they have at times missed the evergreen Robert Lewandowski up front since his move to Barcelona in the summer.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: According to German outlet BILD, an internal analysis undertaken by Bayern has earmarked Kane as the ideal striker to bring in, given his evident elite-level quality and his refusal to be drawn on a new Spurs contract beyond his current deal, which expires in 2024. It is thought, however, that the 29-year-old will take his time on a decision, which may include seeing his contract through to its completion.

AND WHAT'S MORE: The same outlet reports that this eventuality is more likely than Spurs selling to top four rivals Manchester United, who also hold a serious interest in Kane. It is thought that the Bundesliga giants would be happy to wait until 2024 if that enables them to land the England international - who reached a goalscoring career milestone earlier this month - on a free transfer.

IN TWO PHOTOS:

Getty Images

Getty Images

WHAT NEXT FOR KANE? With Bayern seemingly content to hold out for the best deal, any move likely won't materialise anytime soon, although a multi-billion takeover bid at Tottenham may put a halt to the transfer altogether.