Harry Kane has emerged as a surprise transfer target for Barcelona, with the Spanish giants reportedly exploring the possibility of signing the England captain after the World Cup.
The Bayern Munich striker is currently focused on England's bid for World Cup glory, but Barcelona have already made contact with representatives from Kane's camp to assess whether a blockbuster move could be possible.
According to the Daily Mail, the Catalan club intend to revisit the situation once England's tournament has come to an end.
Kane, 32, has just one year remaining on his Bayern contract, although the Bundesliga champions are determined to keep hold of their star forward.
The England captain is also believed to be happy in Munich, where he enjoyed another prolific campaign after scoring 61 goals in 51 appearances last season.
It is said that Kane's representatives quickly shut down Barcelona's initial approach following exploratory discussions.
Instead, the player's priority after the World Cup is believed to be negotiating a new contract with Bayern rather than pursuing a move elsewhere.
Harry Kane has emerged as a surprise transfer target for Barcelona, with the Spanish giants reportedly exploring the possibility of signing the England captain after the World Cup
|GETTY
Harry Kane now has 11 World Cup goals after netting in England's victory over Panama | PAThat has not deterred Barcelona from monitoring the situation, however.
The Spanish champions are searching for a long-term replacement following Robert Lewandowski's departure and are prepared to push hard for Kane should circumstances change.
Club officials are said to be examining ways to finance what would be one of the biggest transfers of the summer if an opportunity presents itself.
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Match stats from England's 2-0 win over Panama at the World Cup | GETTY/GB NEWSFor now, however, Kane's full attention remains on international duty.
The England skipper has enjoyed another impressive World Cup campaign, scoring three goals during the group stage as Thomas Tuchel's side progressed to the knockout rounds unbeaten.
England now face DR Congo in the Round of 32 in Atlanta, with Kane hoping to continue his fine form as the Three Lions pursue their first World Cup triumph since 1966.
His latest goal, against Panama, also saw him become England's all-time leading goalscorer at World Cup finals, adding another milestone to his remarkable career.
Speaking after surpassing Gary Lineker, Kane offered a joke apology.
"Sorry Gary, I'm one ahead of you now," he said.
Harry Kane could replace Robert Lewandowski at Barcelona if the Catalan giants get their way
| GETTY"I'm sure he'll send some congratulations and I've said before one of England's greatest strikers, especially in World Cups.
"To go ahead of him now is a proud moment for myself and I'm sure he'll be happy for me."
Lineker gracefully praised Kane in return.
"Thank you very much Harry, sincere congratulations, absolutely," he said.
"I genuinely mean it I'm thrilled for it.
"40 years is a long time I am kind of bored of it. I couldn't be more thrilled that it's Harry Kane."