The striker is linked with a major transfer to Manchester United

Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on Brentford striker Ivan Toney as they step up their transfer pursuits this summer. Following a recruitment meeting at Carrington on the first day of pre-season, United have wasted no time in pursuing their transfer targets, reports from the Daily Mail suggest.

United’s transfer strategy

Erik ten Hag’s side are actively working to strengthen their squad, having agreed deals for Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee and Bayern Munich defender Matthijs De Ligt now that the Netherlands are out of Euro 2024. However, despite with Zirkzee’s imminent arrival, United’s interest in Toney remains strong, according to Bild.

Toney, 28, has been heavily linked with a move away from west London, with interest from a number of top clubs. He currently has a year left on his contract with Brentford and no talks have yet taken place over a new deal.

Toney’s ambitions and Brentford’s attitude

The striker returned to action in January after an eight-month ban for breaching FA betting rules. Eager to move to Old Trafford, Toney’s agent has already informed Brentford of his client’s intentions. Brentford manager Thomas Frank has openly discussed Toney’s possible departure, admitting it could be “fun” to see him play for a “top team”.

In February, Frank said: “It can be expensive to sell your best player, but on the other hand, I also know that he will only have one year left on his contract with us until the summer. We also know how much it’s worth. I don’t think there are many strikers in the world who are better than him at the moment. He is a very good striker who is in his footballing age. Personally, as a coach, I’d rather keep Toney, but one day it might be fun to see him on a top team.”

Future prospects for Toney

Toney did not shy away from expressing his aspirations. In an exclusive interview with Mail Sport, he said: “Everyone knows I would love to play for a top team and be at the top of the leagues, playing with the best. I’m a Brentford player at the moment and until the time comes, whether it’s this window or at the end of the season or whenever it happens, then so be it, but now I’m a Brentford player and that’s my focus . “

Toney’s ambition to play for an elite team is clear and his performance in the upcoming Euro 2024 final against Spain could raise his profile even further. Winning a major honor could be the perfect springboard for Toney to secure a move to one of Europe’s top clubs.

Conclusion

Manchester United’s interest in Ivan Toney highlights their intention to strengthen their attacking options. With Toney’s proven ability to score goals and his desire to play at the highest level, a move to Old Trafford could be a win-win arrangement. As the transfer window progresses, this saga is one to watch closely, with potential developments shaping the fortunes of both Manchester United and Brentford.

This interest not only underlines United’s ambitious transfer strategy, but also sets the stage for what could be one of the most significant moves of the summer.