Brentford manager Thomas Frank has confirmed that Ivan Toney will be leaving the club in the summer.
The 27-year-old remained suspended for eight months for breaking gambling rules but he has now returned to football action.
Toney is one of the best strikers in the Premier League and a host of top clubs will be vying for his signature in the summer.
Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea have all been credited with a transfer interest but it remains to be seen where the England international ultimately goes.
Arsenal
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta made some blockbuster signings last summer, including Declan Rice for a record fee from West Ham United. But he didn’t sign a top striker and that wasn’t a great decision.
The Gunners currently have Gabriel Jesus who has a lot of qualities but his finishing isn’t great. Eddie Nketiah is also a good squad option but he is not a big threat to score from crosses.
Ivan Toney would be an outstanding signing for Arsenal, who has made a lot of progress in the last few years but are yet to win the Premier League title. The England international is tall, physically imposing and offers aerial threat. But a transfer will depend on Brentford’s asking price and how much the Gunners can afford to spend in the summer.
Manchester United
Manchester United signed Rasmus Hojlund for £72 million in the summer window from Atalanta. While the Dane undoubtedly has a lot of potential, the Red Devils still look in need of a recognised striker.
Anthony Martial has been out for another lengthy spell, and he will very likely be released in the summer. Manchester United didn’t make any additions in January due to Financial Fair Play restrictions. Therefore, we could imagine they will have some budget for a marquee signing in the next transfer window.
Chelsea
One of the biggest issues for Chelsea this season is their ability to score goals. They are currently languishing in 11th spot in the Premier League following a disappointing campaign under Mauricio Pochettino.
Christopher Nkunku arrived in the summer but has mostly remained on the sidelines due to fitness issues. Nicolas Jackson has a lot of potential but he is still young and far from the finished product. Cole Palmer has also played as a centre-forward but that is not his natural position.
Chelsea would love to sign a lethal striker like Toney, but they will have to be cautious considering their enormous spending in the last few transfer windows.
