Manchester United are exploring a strategic approach to secure Ivan Toney from Brentford, potentially outmaneuvering rivals despite his contract expiring next year.
The England striker has attracted interest from top clubs like Chelsea, Tottenham, and Arsenal, but United are now entering the fray. With a current injury crisis leaving only Joshua Zirkzee fit among their strikers, Toney’s proven goal-scoring ability could be a valuable addition to Old Trafford.
Brentford’s asking price for Toney stands at £60 million, a figure they have remained firm on despite Toney’s desire to move to a bigger club. Given their previous success with acquiring Mason Mount and Leny Yoro, United might employ a similar approach to secure Toney.
Last year, United managed to sign Mount for £55 million, despite his potential move to Liverpool. They capitalized on prolonged negotiations between Mount and Liverpool, swooping in to finalize the transfer. Similarly, this summer, United outbid Real Madrid for Leny Yoro, securing the Lille defender for £58 million ahead of his free-agent status in 2025.
With the financial backing of new minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who has facilitated recent high-profile acquisitions like Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt, United could be well-positioned to meet Brentford’s demands and secure Toney’s services.
Bees manager Thomas Frank has expressed his desire for Toney to remain at Brentford, appreciating the striker’s impact. “I would love him to stay,” Frank told Sky Sports. “He’s a valuable goalscorer, and if someone wants to buy him, it will be expensive.”
United’s potential offer might leverage their previous success in outmaneuvering competitors, making a strong case for Toney’s transfer while other clubs wait for a possible free-agent opportunity next year.
