west Ham United are reportedly set to rival Arsenal and Chelsea for the signature of Brentford striker Ivan Toney.
The 27-year-old was heavily linked with a move away in the winter transfer window following the conclusion of his eight-month ban for breaching the Football Association’s betting regulations.
Arsenal and Chelsea were among those credited with an interest, but a January transfer ultimately failed to materialise.
Despite remaining with the Bees, Toney’s future continues to draw transfer speculation after Thomas Frank admitted the forward is likely to be sold at the end of the season.
With Toney’s contract set to expire in June 2025, the upcoming summer transfer window represents one final chance for Brentford to demand a considerable fee for one of their prized assets.
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Arsenal and Chelsea could face competition from another London club if they decide to make a move for Toney this summer.
According to Football Insider, West Ham are plotting a bid to recruit the England international ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.
The report suggests the Hammers believe there is a real possibility they can win the race to sign the Brentford marksman.
West Ham are keen to bolster their forward options, with uncertainty surrounding Danny Ing’s future at the London Stadium.
Ings is set to enter the final 12 months of his contract, and he could be allowed to leave after starting just six of his 24 competitive appearances this season.
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Michail Antonio still remains an important option for David Moyes, but there are concerns over his fitness after he recently spent over two months on the sidelines with a knee issue.
Although Jarrod Bowen has also been utilised as a central striker this season, signing a new number nine would allow the 27-year-old to operate in his familiar wide position.
Toney scored four goals in his first five appearances following the conclusion of his lengthy ban, but he has failed to find the net in Brentford’s last five matches.
Nevertheless, he remains a crucial player for the Bees, having scored 72 goals in 134 matches during his four-year stay with the club.
Toney is currently with Gareth Southgate‘s England squad preparing for Tuesday’s friendly with Belgium at Wembley.
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