Third London Club To Rival Arsenal, Chelsea For Brentford’s Ivan Toney
Reports suggest that West Ham United are preparing to compete with Arsenal and Chelsea for the acquisition of Brentford striker Ivan Toney. The 27-year-old was heavily linked with a move during the winter transfer window after serving an eight-month ban for violating the Football Association’s betting regulations.
Arsenal and Chelsea were reportedly interested in Toney, but a transfer failed to materialize in January. Despite remaining with Brentford, speculation surrounding Toney’s future persists, especially after manager Thomas Frank acknowledged the likelihood of the forward being sold at the end of the season.
Toney’s contract is due to expire in June 2025, making the upcoming summer transfer window Brentford’s last opportunity to secure a substantial fee for one of their prized assets.
Arsenal and Chelsea may encounter competition from another London-based club if they pursue a move for Toney in the upcoming summer transfer window.
As per Football Insider, West Ham is reportedly considering making a bid to secure the services of the England international for the 2024-25 season.
The report indicates that the Hammers are optimistic about their chances of securing Toney’s signature, believing they could emerge as frontrunners in the race for the Brentford striker.
West Ham is eager to strengthen their attacking options, particularly with uncertainty looming over Danny Ings’s future at the London Stadium. Ings is nearing the final year of his contract and could potentially depart, having started only six out of his 24 competitive appearances this season.
Michail Antonio continues to hold significance for David Moyes, but there are apprehensions regarding his fitness following a recent two-month absence due to a knee problem.
While Jarrod Bowen has occasionally been deployed as a central striker this season, acquiring a new number nine would allow the 27-year-old to return to his accustomed wide role.
Toney made an impressive start with four goals in his initial five appearances after serving his suspension, but he has been unable to score in Brentford’s last five matches.
Nevertheless, he remains a pivotal figure for the Bees, having registered 72 goals in 134 matches over his four-year tenure with the club.
Toney is currently with Gareth Southgate’s England squad, gearing up for Tuesday’s friendly against Belgium at Wembley.
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