Man United must avoid major £45m Ivan Toney transfer mistake in Chelsea battle

Ivan Toney looks set to leave Brentford this summer with Manchester United given the perfect opportunity to sign an elite striker.

The 28-year-old has emerged as one of the Premier League's best forwards having scored 72 goals in 141 appearances since joining the Bees from Peterborough in September 2020. Toney is also regarded as one of the best penalty takers in world football having netted 30 spot kicks, missing just two.

It's why this is such a good opportunity for someone to sign a striker who is clearly available with just days left of the summer transfer window. Toney's Brentford contract will expire next summer and with no signs of an extension, the West London club will be keen to sell and earn a healthy profit.

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Interest from Chelsea and Saudi Arabia has emerged this summer and United have been previously linked. Having only ever won the EFL trophy in his career, staying in England is likely to hold greater appeal.

And after winning two trophies in two seasons under Erik ten Hag and with ambitious plans for the future under Ineos, United could be the perfect destination. Whilst a move to Chelsea may have the appeal of staying in London, the chaotic project at Stamford Bridge should dissuade some new signings.

There is no guarantee that either club will compete for major trophies in the future but United's recent success of picking up silverware and a sensible transfer strategy under Ineos should be more attractive. For United, the question is whether they need another striker.

Rasmus Hojlund and