Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has suggested that Tottenham Hotspur may struggle to keep Harry Kane out of the clutches of European football's elite clubs as he is now "one of the best strikers in the world".
The England international has earned links to reigning European champions Real Madrid with his form since September, scoring 15 goals in his last 12 games for club and country.
Ahead of this weekend's trip to Wembley Stadium to take on Spurs, Klopp admits that he has been impressed by opposite number Mauricio Pochettino, whom he credits for keeping the core of his group intact.
"I've seen fantastic development [from Tottenham] since I was in England. So far, apart from [Kyle] Walker this year, nobody left the club - that is a big job they have done so far," he told reporters.
"It will be a big challenge for them in the next few years because Harry is not only one of the best strikers in Europe, he is one of the best strikers in the world - 100%. Everybody knows that, and Dele Alli as well, and [Christian] Eriksen as well. They are in a really good moment as a club."
Asked how his defenders would handle Kane, having successfully kept Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku at bay last weekend, Klopp would not be drawn on direct comparisons.
"I don't have to judge these two," he added. "They are both fantastic strikers. The difference is that Harry is much more a part of the game when he is not scoring - but I am pretty sure Lukaku can make these steps too.
"We avoided the balls to Lukaku and that must be a key for Harry as well but, if we are too concentrated on one player, then Dele Alli is everywhere or Eriksen shoots from everywhere with decisive passes."
Kane has scored two goals in five previous meetings with Liverpool, both of which have come at Anfield.
Daniel Lewis
