Ivan Toney, the England striker currently with Brentford, is reportedly a target for Manchester United as they continue their rebuild. Despite the recent acquisition of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in Serie A by the team’s owners, INEOS, Manchester United is still keen on bolstering their offensive options for manager Erik ten Hag.
According to Christian Falk of BILD, Toney’s agent has already informed Brentford of the player’s desire to transfer. Manchester United is showing interest in the 28-year-old forward, who is representing England at Euro 2024. Toney played a crucial role in England’s 2-1 extra-time victory over Slovakia by setting up Harry Kane’s decisive goal.
Manchester United’s recent signings include Rasmus Hojlund, 21, from last summer, and Joshua Zirkzee, 23, from Bologna. Adding Toney could form a formidable attacking trio for Ten Hag.
The Athletic reports that Brentford values Toney at £60 million, but with only one year left on his contract at the Gtech Community Stadium, the price might be negotiable down to £40 million.
Since Brentford’s promotion in 2021, Toney has established himself as one of the Premier League’s top strikers, scoring 36 goals and providing 11 assists in 85 games. He finished third in the 2022–23 Golden Boot race, trailing only Harry Kane and Erling Haaland.
Former Manchester United striker Dion Dublin has praised Toney and urged the club to sign him. Dublin believes Toney fits Ten Hag’s profile of a striker and would thrive at Manchester United. Dublin told William Hill last year, “I think he’s good enough to go and play for Manchester United, and I think he’d only get better if he went there. They need a goal scorer with experience, and Erik ten Hag likes big strikers, so perhaps they want to look at Ivan Toney.”
Toney’s rise to prominence includes notable performances like his two goals in a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in November 2022. Standing 6 feet 1 inch tall, Toney is known for his agility, aerial prowess, and unpredictability. His skill as a set-piece taker was showcased in England’s quarterfinal shootout victory over Switzerland at Euro 2024.
In his first season at Old Trafford, Rasmus Hojlund scored 16 goals in 43 games across all competitions, showing promise despite inconsistent performances during a challenging season for Manchester United.
Meanwhile, Joshua Zirkzee, added to Ten Hag’s attacking lineup, is known more for his versatility than his goal-scoring record, having scored 14 goals in 58 games for Bologna while playing various forward positions.
As Manchester United continues to rebuild under Ten Hag, Ivan Toney could be a significant addition, providing the goal-scoring capability and physical presence the team needs to compete at the highest level. Fans will be closely watching the negotiations to see if Manchester United can secure this crucial transfer target.
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