Negotiations are still ongoing between Manchester United and Brentford for Bryan Mbeumo, but they understand it will be difficult to get “The Bees” to pay for their very high sum, especially after they lost their manager Thomas Frank to Tottenham.
Manchester United are exploring alternatives to Mbeumo and are focusing on a goal machine that impresses in Saudi Arabia.
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Manchester United are constantly working to strengthen their attack ahead of the upcoming season, and after financial challenges in securing the signing of Bryan Mbeumo, they have quickly turned their attention to a more accessible – but equally interesting – option: Ivan Toney.
The 29-year-old English striker, who currently plays for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, has caught the attention of the Old Trafford club. After an outstanding season in the Arab League, where he scored 23 goals in 30 games, Toney has once again attracted interest from several European clubs. United believe his previous experience in the Premier League, goalscoring and physical strength make him a very valuable choice to lead the attacking line.
From Mbeumo to Toney
Originally, the Red Devils had set their sights on Mbeumo, but Brentford are demanding around £78 million for a transfer – a sum that United’s board considers far too high, especially with other areas of the squad also in need of reinforcements. In light of this situation, new options were considered, and Toney emerged as a clear market opportunity.
Toney already has Premier League experience
Al-Ahli signed him for £42 million from Brentford when his market value was £50 million, but according to Transfermarkt, the price has now dropped to £25 million. In this context, Manchester United have made an offer that could be very attractive: £30 million fixed plus £5 million in bonuses.
Initial contacts between the clubs and the player’s representatives have already been established, and Old Trafford is optimistic about finalizing the deal in the next few days. Toney is likely to see a return to the Premier League, especially with the shirt of a historic club like United, as very favourable.
With this move, the English side are not only aiming to avoid excessive use of funds, but also to bring in a striker with experience, a hunger to compete at the top level again, and a profile that suits the style of play they want to play next season.
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