Chelsea are reportedly considering a substantial bid for Brentford striker Ivan Toney in the upcoming January transfer window amid interest from London rivals Arsenal.
The striker, who is still serving an eight-month ban for gambling offences, has recently resumed training with Brentford.
Toney is scheduled to make a comeback to the league in January, yet despite his extended absence, there is significant interest from several clubs in securing the services of the striker.
As reported by Football London, Chelsea are currently in the process of preparing a big-money bid for the forward in the next transfer window.
The report adds that The Blues have held a longstanding interest in the striker and had contemplated a move for him in the summer of 2022 before his suspension.
Given that Toney's current contract is set to expire in 2025, Brentford are believed to be open to negotiations regarding the striker in January, but they are expected to seek a transfer fee in the region of £80m to let him go.
Since Todd Boehly's takeover, Chelsea have already spent more than £1.2bn on player transfers, and it seems that they are prepared to support Mauricio Pochettino's wishes in the upcoming January transfer window as well.
Prior to his suspension, the Brentford striker was in excellent form, netting 20 goals in 33 appearances for his club during the 2022-23 Premier League season.
Devesh Jaganath
