Transfer Notebook: Harry Kane representatives hold Saudi talks with England captain open to shock move

Representatives of England captain Harry Kane have held talks with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.

talkSPORT understands Kane tops Hilal’s three-man striker shortlist ahead of Victor Osimhen – also linked with Arsenal and Tottenham this summer – plus Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.

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The ambitious attempt to prise Kane away from Bayern Munich is being led by the Riyadh-based club’s recently appointed sporting director, Simon Francis – the former Bournemouth defender and technical director.

While Kane remains committed to Bayern for now and is set to agree a new contract, the 33-year-old has not closed the door on a move to the Middle East before he hangs up his boots.

Hilal have asked to be kept informed over his long-term plans.

Meanwhile, Villa are understood to be relaxed about Watkins’ future and expect him to remain at Villa Park.

Pope ready to fight for Newcastle No.1

Nick Pope wants to stay at Newcastle and fight for his place, talkSPORT understands.

Pope’s status as the Magpies’ number one goalkeeper is in doubt following the arrival of giant Czech stopper Lukas Hornicek.

Pope has been linked with Leeds and Ipswich this summer, as well as Scottish champions Celtic.

But sources close to the 34-year-old say he has no immediate plans to leave St James’ Park.

Pope joined Newcastle from Burnley in the summer of 2022 and has since made more than 100 Premier League appearances.

The 6ft 6-inch Hornicek cost £25.7million from Portuguese side Braga.

United’s teen star to snub Chelsea interest

Manchester United are confident teenage sensation JJ Gabriel will commit his future to Old Trafford amid interest from Chelsea.

Gabriel, 15, became United’s youngest ever player when he came off the bench during the recent pre-season friendly with Atletico Madrid in Sweden.

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The Enfield-born forward can sign scholarship forms when he turns 16 in October but United want to get a pre-contract agreement in place for when he turns 17 and can pen pro forms.

A United source has told talkSPORT they want to get the wonderkid, who is banned from wearing the club’s new training kit as it is sponsored by a gambling firm, tied down as soon as possible.

Championship striker eyed by Everton

Everton as well as a number of European clubs are showing interest in Burnley striker Zian Flemming.

Flemming scored an impressive 11 goals in 29 Premier League games last season as the Clarets were relegated back to the Championship.

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The Dutchman also struck twice in the Clarets’ 2-2 opening day draw with West Ham last weekend.

Everton boss David Moyes is keen to bolster his forward line and has added Flemming to a list of potential options.

Burnley want to keep the 28-year-old.