Transfer Rumour: Arsenal’s London rival emerge as favourite to sign Ivan Toney

Ivan Toney is currently one of the most prolific goal-scorers in the world. After serving an eight-month suspension from professional football, he returned to play for Brentford in the Premier League.

Ever since Toney rejoined his team in January, his presence has made a significant impact. Now, he’s getting offers from several big clubs in the Premier League, including Arsenal, the arch-rivals of Brentford.

West Ham reportedly want Ivan Toney in statement signing

There have been significant developments in the race to sign Ivan Toney from Brentford. Chelsea, who had been eyeing the English international since the last summer transfer market, has now been overtaken by West Ham.

The striker role at the London Stadium has been an issue all season for David Moyes. Michail Antonio has had consistent form and injury problems, Danny Ings is not getting any better, and the West Ham boss doesn’t trust young Divin Mubama to lead the line just yet.

The report claims that the Irons want “to finally address their lack of depth up front and view Toney as their top target,” and now David Moyes’ side are in a “pole position” to land the “statement” transfer from Brentford.

Brentford exec addresses Ivan Toney future

With Ivan Toney attracting plenty of interest, Brentford Executive, Lee Dykes has conceded the 28-year-old could leave this summer, but only if “Brentford’s terms” are met.

“Well, we’ve got to be honest and open with ourselves, like we were last summer with David Raya,” Dykes told The United Stand. “We signed players, and we’re honest with them, and they’re honest with us that maybe the time may come for them to go on to bigger and better levels than ourselves.”

“Ivan is in a similar situation to what David was in. He’s got aspirations to play at a higher level, which is fine, but it’s got to be on Brentford’s terms, obviously.”

“And we’ve got to do it as a recruitment department, and it’s particularly my role. I’ve just got to be ready to know that there may be a situation where we’re looking to bring somebody in if Ivan leaves the club, but there’s also a situation where Ivan stays at the club, and that’s what we all want.”

Given the size of clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea, as well as their superior spending power, West Ham landing Toney first would be a very impressive feat if they can get it over the line in the summer.