Arsenal Withdraw Interest In 28Year Old Premier League Striker
Arsenal have reportedly ended their pursuit of Brentford forward Ivan Toney. The Gunners are in search of a new number nine due to concerns over Gabriel Jesus’ form and injury problems.
The Brazilian has scored just four goals in 26 Premier League appearances and has missed time due to knee and hamstring issues.
Jesus has slipped down the pecking order following Kai Havertz’s impressive form, with Havertz netting eight goals in his last 13 Premier League matches.
Despite Havertz proving he can lead the line, Arsenal have been linked with several centre-forward targets, including Brentford’s Toney.
Arsenal abandon pursuit of Toney
The English striker attracted significant interest upon his return from an eight-month betting ban in the middle of the January transfer window.
Toney made a promising start, scoring four goals in his first five games back, but his form has since declined. He hasn’t scored in any of his last 11 Premier League appearances.
According to The Mirror, Arsenal are reducing their interest in Toney, making a move to the Emirates Stadium this summer highly unlikely.
The report also states that Arsenal are likely to halt their pursuit of Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak, who was previously considered one of their main targets.
With Havertz’s form, Arsenal believe they no longer require a fully developed striker but rather a younger player who can grow and eventually become a regular starter.
Toney’s Brentford departure still likely
While a move to Arsenal seems unlikely, Toney is still anticipated to conclude his four-year spell with Brentford this summer.
The 28-year-old is approaching the final year of his contract, and there are no signs of a new deal being agreed upon.
Consequently, the upcoming summer transfer window offers Brentford a final opportunity to secure a substantial transfer fee for Toney.
Tottenham are reportedly at the forefront of the race to acquire the Brentford forward, with a potential fee estimated around £50 million.
West Ham have also been mentioned as potential suitors, and it remains uncertain if Chelsea will revive their interest after being linked with a move during the winter transfer window.
