Manchester United may need to act quickly if they are to secure the signature of Ivan Toney this summer.
The Red Devils have shaken up their ranks markedly over the past few months, making four marquee signings, including Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee. Further acquisitions are expected over the coming weeks as well, with a midfielder being eyed at Old Trafford.
Signing another forward is not being ruled out by United either, and that could quickly become a priority for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co if they decide to pursue Toney.
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The England international has been heavily linked with a move away from Brentford for the past 12 months, and a departure appears to be more on the cards than ever after the striker was left out of his side’s match against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli are very interested in signing Toney, and the forward’s omission may be a hint that the Middle Eastern outfit are closing in on a deal, despite Thomas Frank insisting otherwise.
Thus, other clubs interested in Toney will need to act swiftly if they are to prevent another top player from being lured to Saudi.
The 28-year-old has been linked with Chelsea and Arsenal previously, though United’s desire to bring in a more experienced forward could see them view him as a viable option – especially with Rasmus Hojlund ruled out through injury.
Jadon Sancho is also viewed as a No. 9 option by Erik ten Hag, though the ex-Borussia Dortmund star continued to be linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain.
Frank was adamant that a deal is not ‘closed’ for Toney at this stage, but the Danish boss’ decision to leave out his most prolific finisher suggests that something is on the horizon.
He told Sky Sports: “A lot of things are going on with Ivan. There is some transfer interest and so we decided not to involve him in the squad. I can't give too much away... There is interest, but a deal is not closed."
Brentford previously demanded a fee in the region of £80million to part ways with Toney, though there have been suggestions recently that the Bees have lowered their valuation in the hope of facilitating the exit of the forward.
