Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has claimed that Tottenham Hotspur could 'struggle' to finish in the top half this season if Harry Keane leaves this summer.
The 28-year-old frontman was electric for Spurs last season, bagging an impressive 33 goals and 17 assists in all competitions.
However, his efforts weren't enough to fire the Lilywhites to any major trophies - something they have failed to win since capturing the League Cup in 2008.
The England captain has since spoken of his desire to compete for silverware, fuelling a plethora of transfer rumours linking him with a move to reigning Premier League champions Manchester City, who are also in the market for a centre-forward following the departure of legendary Argentine striker Sergio Aguero.
City's head coach Pep Guardiola has also admitted he would love to bring Kane to the Etihad Stadium this month, although, Spurs' boss Nuno Espirito Santo has since fired back, claiming that the prolific goalscorer will not be leaving N17 this summer.
Despite Espirito Santo's claims, Kane continues to be linked with a move to Manchester and Merson has insisted that the north Londoners won't be able to replace his influence on the team.
"It's impossible to replace him," he told Sky Sports News. "Top goalscorer, top assists, he’s the all-around player – the complete package.
"He scored goals, he comes short, he can put the ball through the eye of a needle - he is the all-around package. That is why I think Daniel Levy is sitting there and thinking it doesn't matter all the money in the world, how am I going to replace him?
"If Kane stays you’re looking fifth or sixth and they might sneak back into the top four. If he goes, I’m thinking top half is going to be a struggle.
"You take all his goals and all his assist away I don't where they can come."
