Arsenal’s pursuit of a striker continues to be a priority, with Ivan Toney featuring prominently on their shortlist, despite a temporary shift in focus. While financial constraints prevented the Gunners from making a move for Toney during the January transfer window, manager Mikel Arteta is now eyeing attacking reinforcements in the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Mirror reports that Arsenal’s shortlist includes Toney, RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko, and Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP. However, Toney’s name has reportedly slipped from the top of Arteta’s list, even though the club admires his physical presence and clinical finishing.
The 27-year-old’s positive fitness record is a significant factor in Arsenal’s continued interest, especially considering the injury woes of their current striker, Gabriel Jesus.
Jesus, who has struggled with injuries throughout the season, has been limited to just 1,125 minutes in the Premier League out of a potential 2,430, making 18 appearances in 27 games. Arsenal is increasingly concerned about Jesus’s injury issues, making the search for a reliable and durable striker a pressing matter for the club.
The Gunners value Toney not only for his physical attributes but also for his football intelligence and ability to link up play effectively. Toney, who has been a standout performer for Brentford, is expected to leave Gtech Community Stadium this year, attracting interest from various clubs, including Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur.
However, Brentford’s reported asking price of £80 million for Toney’s transfer poses a significant hurdle for Arsenal. The Gunners are unwilling to engage in a bidding war with their London rivals and overspend on a single player, considering other forward options in their sights. Toney’s contract with Brentford runs until June 2025, adding another layer of complexity to any potential negotiations.
Despite Toney being a priority target, the clash between Brentford and Arsenal could serve as an audition for the striker, providing a reminder of his talents. On the flip side, the game could also be crucial for Gabriel Jesus, who might make a return to Arteta’s starting XI for the first time since January. Jesus has faced repeated setbacks due to knee injuries and hamstring issues, leading to concerns within the Arsenal hierarchy about his reliability.
As Arsenal navigates the challenges of securing a suitable striker, the performances of Toney and Jesus in the upcoming fixture may play a crucial role in shaping the club’s transfer decisions and addressing the pressing need for a reliable goal scorer in their ranks.