Arsenal’s pursuit of a new striker in the upcoming January transfer window has intensified, with various reports linking them to a potential £100 million deal for Brentford’s Ivan Toney. Despite a strong start to the 2023/24 campaign, Arsenal’s injury woes and lack of depth have highlighted the need for reinforcements, particularly in the midfield and upfront.
Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic is identified as the manager’s preferred number nine, but his hefty price tag of €80 million raises concerns. Alternatively, Arsenal has shown interest in Brentford’s Ivan Toney, with the striker himself reportedly pushing for a release clause in his contract. Talks with Toney’s representatives have taken place, adding intrigue to his future.
Toney, lauded as “remarkable” by Brentford’s manager Thomas Frank, has proven himself across various English football tiers, culminating in an impressive debut season in the Premier League where he scored 20 goals. His goal-scoring prowess makes him an appealing target for Arsenal, especially considering the struggles of current forwards Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah.
If Arsenal secures Toney, it could mark the end of their search for a clinical striker since Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The 27-year-old Englishman’s arrival could emulate the impact Aubameyang had during the rebuilding phase, potentially transforming Arsenal into contenders for European competition. However, the substantial price tag and Brentford’s reluctance to part ways with their star forward pose significant hurdles.
