November 24th 2023.
Ivan Toney has emerged as a key target for Arsenal and Chelsea. Both London clubs are looking to strengthen their forward line in the January transfer window, but Chelsea have the upper hand in the race to sign the Brentford striker.
Toney scored 20 top flight goals last season and his eight-month ban for breaking gambling regulations is set to expire in the New Year. Arsenal have made a solid start to the new campaign, however, goals have been hard to come by for their two recognised centre forwards Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus.
According to the Telegraph, Brentford have placed a £80 million price tag on the 27-year-old and have little intention of selling him before next summer. The Bees will also be boosted by Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa set to feature in the Africa Cup of Nations at the turn of the year, which coincides with Toney's return.
Arsenal, however, may not be able to afford the transfer. The Gunners came close to flouting Financial Fair Play rules in the summer, and Mikel Arteta's team have tended to be more reserved in the winter window. With Jesus, Trossard, Nketiah and even Kai Havertz representing solid alternatives, Arsenal believe that a striker no longer represents a priority.
Central midfield, however, has become an area of concern due to Thomas Partey's imminent departure for the Africa Cup of Nations. This will place an even greater burden on the likes of Declan Rice and Jorginho, whose contract expires at the end of the season. It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will be able to find the funds needed to secure Toney in January.
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