The Harry Kane soap opera is nowhere close to a conclusion, yet the feeling that the end to what is already looking like a poorly written script will be underwhelming.
In the wake of fans backlash at Kane, who they describe as disrespectful to the badge, the England captain has accused the club chairman Dani Levy of reneging on promises made to him.
The transfer seesaw is dragging slowly, and with August 31 approaching, Manchester City might have to turn their attention elsewhere. If the Citizens do look in anotherction, it is clear that Pep Guardiola needs a top-class striker to fill the void left by Sergio Aguero.
Harry Kane's move to City stalling
The end to Tottenham's season left Harry Kane disenchanted and heightened his desire for a trophy. The striker's interview with Gary Neville on overlap revealed a lot, with the England captain hinting at a move away from Spurs.
The move has not materialized, and as expected, Dani Levy is playing hardball.
Manchester City have been pushing for a move for the Englishman, but the adamant attitude of Spurs chairman Dani Levy is beginning to make City rethink the deal.
Kane is still angling for a move, but Spurs are not budging, holding out for a fee of about £150 million. As deep as City's pockets are, they are unwilling to match the figure.
City's other striker option
After losing their opening game to Tottenham 1-0, Pep has made a striker signing a priority. Despite 66% of the possession and having 18 shots in the game, they failed to get a goal highlighting the importance of a striker of repute.
The only striker available to Pep now is Gabriel Jesus, and in a long season, the Brazilian who has had his share of injuries will not suffice.
With the pursuit of Kane proving increasingly hard to pull off, City may turn their sights on their other targets.
Fiorentina's Dusan Vlahovic, who has also been a subject of interest for Tottenham, has been lined up by Pep.
Vlahovic: A cheaper option to Kane
Vlahovic had a fine season in Serie A, proving to be one of the finest strikers in the league. The 21-year-old Serbian proved his mettle as he helped Fiorentina to a mid-table finish in Serie A. He bagged a respectable 21 goals last season to finish fourth in the Capocannonieri race behind Cristiano Ronaldo, Romelu Lukaku and Luis Muriel.
La Viola are hoping to keep the striker but are open to selling for the right price.
Arsenal and Spurs were ahead in the race for the striker, but according to Tutto Mercato Web, City's struggles at signing Kane has shifted their attention to the Fiorentina star.
Firenze Viola has backed up the claim by Tutto Mercato Web, adding that City are ready to offer a fee of £68m.
The Serie A side is waiting for a bid to arrive.