Man Utd 'hold Ivan Toney talks' as Chelsea left fearing last-minute hijack

Ivan Toney's proposed move to Chelsea could reportedly be hijacked by a late Manchester United approach.

Toney is expected to be moved on by Brentford before Friday's deadline, with the Englishman subject to both Saudi Arabian and Premier League interest.

Chelsea, despite their summer spending spree, are said to be considering an offer, with the Blues confident Brentford will agree to sell at a reduced price.

The Euro 2024 star has just one year left on his contract with Brentford, meaning this summer represents the west London club's last real chance to cash in.

Brentford are said to want a fee in the region of £40million for their talisman - a sharp reduction from the £100m+ pricetag they slapped on his shoulders during the January transfer window.

But competition for his signature is expected to be fierce.

That's because, as per The Evening Standard, Toney has emerged as a late transfer target for the Red Devils, with United said to have held talks with the wantaway striker.

Negotiations aren't said to be advanced yet and the three-time European champions have not tabled an offer.

Brentford boss Thomas Frank was quizzed on Toney's future ahead of the Bees' weekend trip to Liverpool, with the Dane saying: "Ivan trained the whole week. Trained with good attitude in every aspect. He could be involved, he could not be involved.

"He could be here after the 30 [August] and he could not be here. Basically everything is up in the air.

"I've said the whole time that if he's here I'm very happy, if he's not here then I'm happy on his behalf."

Toney is yet to feature in the Premier League for Brentford this season with the capital club next in action against Colchester United in the EFL Cup second round tonight.

It comes ahead of what promises to be a hectic end to the transfer window for United.

Manuel Ugarte's move from Paris Saint-Germain is on the verge of completion, with the midfielder joining as part of a £50m deal.

Whereas Raheem Sterling remains a viable option for the 20-time English champions ahead of deadline day.

The ex-Manchester City and Liverpool attacker is no longer wanted by Chelsea, with Old Trafford having emerged as a potential option.

That deal could hinge on the future of Jadon Sancho, with United themselves keen to shift their own unwanted England international.

All transfer business must be completed by 11pm on Friday evening.