Reports suggest that Manchester United considered signing Ivan Toney during the summer transfer window but ultimately chose not to due to Erik ten Hag’s concerns. Ten Hag aimed to strengthen his attacking options at the end of last season, resulting in the acquisition of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in July. Despite links to Toney both before and after Zirkzee’s arrival, the club eventually withdrew from talks.
Toney also drew interest from Chelsea and Arsenal but ended up signing with Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League after Brentford accepted a £40 million bid. The 28-year-old played a key role in England’s Euro 2024 run, scoring twice in Al Ahli’s recent 4-2 win over Damac.
Had Ten Hag not expressed doubts about Toney’s pressing capabilities, he might have remained in the Premier League with Manchester United. ESPN reported that while Ten Hag recognized Toney’s goal-scoring talent, he was concerned about the forward’s energy levels in pressing situations. Brentford’s manager, Thomas Frank, had hoped to keep Toney but resigned himself to the player’s departure as his contract neared its end. After Toney’s move to Saudi Arabia, where he will earn approximately £400,000 per week, Frank praised his contributions, referring to him as a Brentford legend. Toney, in turn, expressed deep appreciation for his time at Brentford, emphasizing the special connection he formed with the club and its fans.
Meanwhile, Manchester United has faced difficulties in scoring this season, managing only five goals in five matches. Zirkzee has one goal, scored on the opening day, while Rasmus Hojlund remains out with an injury.
United’s choice to forgo Toney may be affecting their early-season attacking struggles. Ten Hag’s emphasis on pressing led the club to favor Zirkzee instead, while Toney has already made a notable impact at Al Ahli. With just five goals in five matches, United may need to consider further adjustments to their strategy, especially with Hojlund still sidelined.