Man Utd target 'wants higher pay than Bruno Fernandes' as INEOS weigh up move

Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Brentford forward Ivan Toney if his price tag is decreased.

The striker has been heavily linked with a move away from the Bees this summer, fuelling speculation himself by openly discussing how he would be keen to kickstart a new project elsewhere with a top club.

Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham have been linked with the England international previously, though Toney remains on the books of Brentford which has left the door open for United to consider a move.

According to GiveMeSport, the Red Devils are considering opening talks with Thomas Frank’s side to discuss a move for the 28-year-old. However, they will only look to strike a deal if Toney’s price tag is reduced to £40million or below.

United are aware that the striker won’t put pen to paper on a new contract with Brentford and, with his deal expiring with the club next summer, they believe that the Bees could reluctantly accept a lesser offer for the forward.

Toney is not ruling out staying at Brentford and running down his contract at the club though, knowing that he could attract further suitors in 2025 when he is available as a free agent.

Toney currently earns £20,000 per week at the Gtech Community Stadium but is reportedly looking to sign a £250,000-per-week contract at a new club. If United were to match his financial demands, he would become one of their highest paid players.

According to Spotrac, only Casemiro and Marcus Rashford earn a weekly salary of more than £250,000 – with Jadon Sancho and Mason Mount both on the contract that Toney is demanding at his next side. Therefore, he would be earning more than skipper Bruno Fernandes (£240,000-per-week).

United have already bolstered their forward ranks this summer with the signing of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna, but INEOS are said to be refusing to rule out the possibility of acquiring the services of another No. 9 to provide an alternative option in the final third.

Despite interest from elsewhere in the Premier League, United’s biggest threat in the race to sign Toney could be Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli. The Middle Eastern outfit have shortlisted the 28-year-old as a potential target and would not struggle to meet his financial demands, though Brentford are yet to receive an approach from the club at this stage.