Arsenal appear to have a clear path to acquiring Brentford striker Ivan Toney in January, with Chelsea allegedly not shortlisting the attacker at the moment. When Toney returns to competitive football, he could be the target of a significant winter transfer.
After being found guilty of 232 violations of the Football Association’s gambling rules, the 27-year-old was banned until January 16. To stay healthy, he’s been playing friendlies for Brentford’s B squad.
Toney scored 21 goals for Brentford last season and could have moved on in the summer if he hadn’t been facing a ban. In May, he was suspended for eight months.
Arsenal are allegedly interested in signing the former Newcastle player. Chelsea may have paved the way for a blockbuster deal.
Toney is not on Chelsea’s list of January objectives, according to journalist David Ornstein. Ornstein told NBC that Toney’s age means he does not fit the profile of possible acquisitions that Chelsea often seeks.
Arsenal and Chelsea have both been connected with forwards in the last 18 months as they have struggled for goals. The unreliability of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah has frequently been Arsenal’s undoing in their pursuit of Manchester City.
Meanwhile, Chelsea has been chastised for failing to sign a top-tier No. 9. Nicolas Jackson has only scored two Premier League goals this season after joining from Villarreal for £30 million in the summer. Mauricio Pochettino, the manager, has few other choices for the job.
Brentford, for one, wants Toney to stay. The forward is under contract with the club until the end of the season.
“I’d like him to stay. Ivan is content to stay. Last week, Brentford head coach Thomas Frank stated, “He is happy at the club.” “It’s impossible to predict what will happen in the future.” He’s a top player, one of our most vital players last year, if not the most crucial.
“Any player who can score 20 or more goals in the Premier League is extremely valuable.” Ivan’s skill set in terms of finishing abilities with his left and right foot, heading and his composure in those moments, link-up play, presence, and character is a very solid package.
“It’s not up to me to put a price tag on him; the club does.” But I’m pleased with him, and I hope he stays here as long as I am the coach.”
