The transfer window is fast approaching, and players and clubs are already preparing for their next steps. Brentford striker Ivan Toney is one of the most sought-after prospects and anticipates a departure this summer. Despite serving a lengthy ban due to gambling, the striker was one of the best in England last season.
Several clubs, including some Premier League giants, are interested in signing him during the transfer window. However, Toney has provided some insight into his ideal destination.
Ivan Toney discusses his summer plans
Ivan Toney, one of the Premier League’s top strikers, is in high demand by several clubs this summer, including Arsenal and Chelsea. However, the 28-year-old has a clear preference for one club: Spanish giants Real Madrid.
In a recent interview with Sky Sports, he was asked about his targets and ambitions for the rest of the season. He expressed his desire to win the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament with England and then mentioned his interest in moving to the Santiago Bernabeu.
His exact words were, “I’m in the mix for the Euros, then we win! If Brentford were to sell me, they make their money… and I move to Madrid!” Despite Toney’s interest, Real Madrid have shown no interest in the player, and he may have joked about it, knowing full well that they won’t pursue him.
⚪️🏴 Ivan Toney was asked by Sky about his ideal scenario for the summer transfer window.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 16, 2024
“If Brentford was to sell me… they make their money, I move to Real Madrid and it's all good!”, Toney says laughing. 😄 pic.twitter.com/Y0M9eXzKSC
Toney has only come back to playing soccer in January after an 8 month ban due to being involved in gambling on soccer games he was in. He now has 4 goals in the 10 games he has played in, and has been selected in the England roster for their March friendly games.
Arsenal reportedly divert from Ivan Toney pursuit
While Ivan Toney was heavily linked with a move to Arsenal, it appears that the Gunners are now distancing themselves from the deal. Despite initial expectations that Arsenal would pursue him, along with interest from Chelsea and even Manchester United, the club now seems to be reconsidering.
Although there was interest from other clubs, Arsenal remained the longest and most prepared to secure his signature. However, Mikel Arteta’s side is now expected to abandon their pursuit of Toney, believing he may not be the ideal fit for their squad and preferring to explore other options.
Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres has emerged as the frontrunner for the striker position at the Emirates. The 25-year-old Swedish soccer star has scored 33 goals and provided 13 assists this season alone. Although there is an £85 million release clause in his contract, Chelsea could also compete for his signature.
🚨🚨| Arsenal have made Sporting Lisbon's forward Viktor Gyokeres (25) their number one striker target this summer. The player has a £85m release clause in his contract.
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) March 13, 2024
[@FTransfersNL] pic.twitter.com/z7SNh9a1aK
Ivan Toney will definitely be concerned to hear Arsenal’s interest in him cool off, but he will be focusing on his next game with Brentford which is a Premier League clash against Manchester United on March 31.
