Erik ten Hag prevented Man Utd from signing Ivan Toney, who is also being pursued by Chelsea and Arsenal.

According to reports, Manchester United had their sights set on signing Ivan Toney during the summer transfer window. However, their interest in the striker was short-lived as manager Erik ten Hag had concerns that ultimately led to the Red Devils pulling out of the race for his signature.

Ten Hag had expressed his desire to strengthen the attacking options for his team at the end of last season. United responded by signing Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in July, meeting their manager's demands. Although they were initially linked with Toney, they eventually chose to not pursue the deal any further.

Toney, who had impressed for Brentford, also caught the attention of Chelsea and Arsenal. However, in a surprising turn of events, he ended up moving to the Saudi Pro League after Al Ahli submitted a bid worth £40m to the Bees. The 28-year-old made his debut for his new team over the weekend, scoring twice in a 4-2 win over Damac.

But, had it not been for Ten Hag's reservations, Toney could have been playing in the Premier League and featuring for Manchester United. According to ESPN, the Red Devils were initially interested in bringing him to Old Trafford but ultimately decided against it. Ten Hag, while acknowledging the striker's goalscoring abilities, had concerns about his ability to press opponents with the energy he demands from his forwards.

Meanwhile, Brentford boss Thomas Frank had hoped to keep Toney at the club but as he entered the final year of his contract, he became increasingly resigned to his departure. In a staggering deal worth approximately £400,000-a-week, Toney made the move to Saudi Arabia. Frank, who had worked with Toney for four years, praised the striker for his contributions to the team, calling him a "Brentford legend."

On his emotional departure from Brentford, Toney expressed his gratitude towards the club and its fans, calling them the best and most incredible in the world. He also thanked his teammates, manager, backroom staff, and the owners for their support throughout his time at the club. As he prepares for a new journey, Toney promises that his departure is not a final goodbye to the Bees, but rather a "see you soon."

As Manchester United have struggled to find the back of the net this season, with only five goals scored in five games, the absence of Toney's abilities has been felt. Zirkzee, who scored on the opening day, is the only new addition to the team's attacking options, while Rasmus Hojlund remains out due to injury. It remains to be seen how United will fare without Toney's potential contributions.

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