Alan Shearer names transfer he is 'surprised' Man United did not pursue this summer

Manchester United opted against making a move for Ivan Toney before the striker signed for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli.

The decision has left Premier League legend Alan Shearer taken aback, as he believes Toney, valued at £40million, could have provided a significant boost to United's attacking options.

Erik ten Hag has been busy bolstering his squad this transfer window, securing the services of Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, and the currently sidelined Leny Yoro in defence, while also adding Joshua Zirkzee to the attack with a £36.5m acquisition. United also clinched the £42.5m signing of Manuel Ugarte on Deadline Day.

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Yet, with United only managing two goals in their first two league games, Shearer is puzzled why they didn't pursue Toney, especially given his reduced price tag. "I like Ivan Toney - he's an excellent player," Shearer commented while speaking to Betfair. "Obviously, he knows the Premier League, he knows what it's about and he's proven at that level. He's an England international too.

"He only has one year left on his contract, and I understand why some players would want to go to Saudi Arabia, but for someone like him who's in the prime of his career, he's got another four or five years ahead of him. I think he has a lot to offer."

After being linked with a host of top Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Tottenham, and Chelsea, striker Toney stunned the football world by opting to sign for Al-Ahli, with reports suggesting a £16m-a-year salary now awaits him.

The 28-year-old will