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Financial constraints at Old Trafford have placed a barrier between Manchester United and Brentford’s Ivan Toney, with the latter valued at £100 million by his current club in the Premier League. Despite his English roots and impressive form, the price tag hangs heavy amidst United’s economic concerns.
As Toney’s contract winds down, with a little over a year and a half remaining, the situation remains tense with no clear progress on an extension at Brentford.
This scenario might usually trigger a spending spree from the likes of Chelsea, but even Todd Boehly is seemingly hesitant to release the funds required to snatch the striker from his current club, particularly given that Toney’s contract edges closer to its end.
Next summer, the market dynamics could shift significantly, with Toney nearing the free agency mark, which might present Manchester United with a more viable opportunity to secure his signature without the current hefty financial outlay.
Reports from The Daily Mail suggest Manchester United would ideally pursue Toney. Yet, as things stand, Erik ten Hag might find himself navigating a winter window akin to the last, seeking bargain deals or short-term loan agreements due to the club’s monetary woes, leaving Toney a distant prospect.
Come the next transfer window, there could be a change in the tide with the potential of new investments, particularly with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s involvement possibly rejuvenating United’s spending power.
In a candid conversation with talkSPORT on November 3rd at 10:30 am, Darragh MacAnthony, Toney’s former chairman at Peterborough United, didn’t mince words: “All day long (he is a potential £80 to £90 million striker),” he said. He praised Brentford’s negotiation acumen and hinted at United’s potential future bid under new stewardship, suggesting Toney would be an excellent fit for the club’s attacking needs.
Brentford’s firm stance on their £100 million valuation is underpinned by Toney’s 20-goal performance in the Premier League for the 2022/23 season.
This milestone echoes the prowess of a past United striker, as it has been a decade since a United player—Robin van Persie—has reached the 20-goal mark in a single Premier League season.
