Ivan Toney, a 28-year-old striker for Brentford and England, has reportedly agreed to terms on a personal basis to join Al Ahli, a Saudi Pro League team. Transfer chief Edu Gaspar and head coach Mikel Arteta are reportedly holding up the deal because of the club’s transfer policy, Toney’s age, and the striker’s £100 million price tag.
But it looks like the striker is leaving Arsenal and moving to Saudi Arabia. It appears that Mikel Arteta will need to look elsewhere to increase his attacking options, despite his strong connections to a move to the Gunners.
With less than a year remaining on his deal, Toney’s future was cast into doubt when he was left out of Brentford’s starting lineup for their first two Premier League games. The 28-year-old and Al-Ahli have reportedly agreed on personal terms, and a deal is anticipated to be completed shortly, according to GiveMeSport.
IVAN TONEY HAS REPORTEDLY AGREED PERSONAL TERMS TO MOVE TO SAUDI ARABIA
Given Toney’s stellar Premier League play and his potential to be a valuable asset for Arsenal, this news is surprising. Even though Arteta acknowledged that the team is “a little bit short” up front, it appears that he is happy with his current options.
This summer, Arsenal has already added David Raya and Riccardo Calafiori to its roster, and Mikel Merino of Real Sociedad is almost certain to join as well. Nevertheless, with Victor Osimhen and Nico Williams rumored to be interested in moving to the Emirates Stadium, the Gunners are still looking for a new striker.
Toney’s decision to relocate to Saudi Arabia raises concerns about his future in England because of the Premier League’s intense competition and the necessity of performing at the top level to retain recognition abroad.
As the transfer window closes, Arsenal supporters will be watching with bated breath for any news regarding the striker front. Since Toney is no longer an option, Arteta must move fast to find a replacement and bolster his team in preparation for the upcoming challenges.
