Transfer News: Chelsea Make a Surprise Move to Sign Brentford’s Ivan Toney

Chelsea have been the highest spenders in this season’s summer transfer window. However, they aren’t done yet. They have launched a surprise move for Brentford striker, Ivan Toney.

The Premier League has begun, and Chelsea have already played two games. In their first two games, it has become abundantly clear that the Blues need an out-and-our No.9. Despite possessing the likes of Nicolas Jackson, Cristopher Nkunku and Joao Felix, Chelsea lacks a physical presence up front. Another thing which has become very clear in the first two Prem games is that Ivan Toney doesn’t want to be at Brentford. The 28-year-old Englishman has missed the Bees first two games, with Brentford coach Thomas Frank admitting that Toney’s future is “up in the air.” 

Therefore, situations have created a perfect storm for Ivan Toney’s transfer to Chelsea. With less than a year remaining on his contract with Brentford, it's becoming clear that he won't be signing an extension. A move away now seems the best option for both parties. The 28-year-old striker is expected to command a significant transfer fee, which Brentford can reinvest.  

Former Spurs midfielder and TV pundit Jamie Redknapp also thinks that Brentford should cash in on Toney. During Sky Sports’ Super Sunday, Redknapp said, “Toney has a year left on his contract, so it is Brentford's last chance to get some genuine money for him and he is looking at his options. A year ago he had a lot more than he has now. We thought he would go to Arsenal but that did not happen. Chelsea have looked at him. But I feel Saudi Arabia is an opportunity for him. There is interest there.” 

For Chelsea, Toney would fit neatly into their wage structure, and the transfer fee is expected to be reasonable by their standards. Besides Chelsea, Ivan Toney has attracted interest from Saudi Arabian club, Al Ahli. However, Al Ahli were a fair few million away from matching Brentford’s valuation for Toney. The wage offer from Al Ahli will surely be more than what Chelsea can offer. But the Blues can offer him Premier League and European football. However, several other Premier League stars like Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino and Edouard Mendy have joined the Saudi Arabian club. Hence, a player choosing Saudi Arabian money over Premier League football isn’t unheard of. But with the transfer deadline just a couple of days away, all parties involved must act promptly. 

Also Read: Transfer News: The Victor Osimhen Saga Drags On as He Rejects a Move to Saudi Arabia