Arsenal are reportedly prepared to rival Chelsea in the race for Brentford striker Ivan Toney.
Since joining the West London club in 2020, the 28-year-old has been a major part of the Bees' rise from the EFL to the top level of English football.
Toney found the net on 12 occasions during his maiden campaign in the Premier League, before scoring 20 times in 33 top-flight appearances during a sensational 2022-23 term.
Last season was hindered massively by an eight-month ban for the England international, who was found guilty of breaching Football Association betting regulations.
Following his return from suspension in January, Toney made 16 appearances in the Premier League for Thomas Frank's side, scoring four times.
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Arsenal to rival Chelsea for Toney signing?
According to Football Insider, there could be a late twist in the transfer saga of Toney during the closing stages of the summer transfer window.
The report claims that Arsenal are still considering a last-gasp swoop for the 28-year-old, who was a part of Gareth Southgate's Three Lions squad for Euro 2024 over the summer.
Gunners reportedly could battle with London rivals Chelsea for the signature of Toney, with the deadline fast approaching on Friday.
It is believed that the Brentford marksman is also attracting interest from the riches of the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Ahli keen on the attacker.
Toney has supposedly been offered a lucrative deal to move to the Middle East club, however the player is yet to respond to the offer.
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Do Arsenal need Toney?
Winning their opening two matches of the Premier League season with relative ease against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Aston Villa, it might be tempting to assume that Arsenal are taking a relaxed approach to the end of the summer window.
That being said, there is an argument that the Gunners need to recruit another attacking option considering that one player is set to leave the Emirates.
It has been reported that Eddie Nketiah will be linking up with Crystal Palace for £25m, bringing an end to his spell at his boyhood club.
Carter White
