Man United now interested in surprise move for ‘proven’ £80m premier League star who’s keen to play at Old Trafford

Man United now interested in surprise move for ‘proven’ £80m premier League star who’s keen to play at Old Trafford

Manchester United have been watching Ivan Toney’s return to Premier League action with interest over the past few weeks, according to The Athletic.

The England international recently made his comeback after an eight-month ban for breaching FA betting rules. He has made an immediate impact for Brentford.

Toney scored in his first appearance of the season which contributed to a crucial win over Nottingham Forest. He added another goal in the defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

Against Manchester City, he played his part in Neal Maupay’s goal by blocking the run of Nathan Ake coming from an offside position. His influence has been visible.

Bees manager Thomas Frank recently admitted that Toney is likely to be sold during the summer and it appears United could be in contention to land his signature.

As per The Athletic, the Red Devils have been watching Toney’s comeback with interest in recent weeks.

However, player sales could be required before any major business can be done, considering United are close to breaching Profitability and Sustainability Rules.

Manager Erik ten Hag is eyeing a proven, dependable and experienced striker to provide competition to Rasmus Hojlund with Anthony Martial set to make way.

Toney would be a statement signing for United
Hojlund had a mixed start to the season after joining from Atalanta. He scored five times in the Champions League group stage but struggled to find the net in the Premier League.

He only broke his drought in his 15th league appearance versus Aston Villa. He scored the winner in a stunning 3-2 triumph and has not looked back since.

The Dane has now netted in four successive league outings and should be fancied to continue his fine form when United travel to Villa Park this weekend.

Despite this, Ten Hag may want strong competition for places. He has previously said that he would ideally prefer two players competing for each role.

Toney netted 20 goals in the top-flight last term and has carried on with two goals in three games this season. He would be a statement signing for United.

The big question is whether the club can afford Brentford’s asking price of £80 million. Toney may also need to be convinced to share his game time with Hojlund.

Clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea could hand him a guarantee role up front which won’t happen at United. Hojlund has proved his credentials over the past few weeks