Zirkzee dilemma, Hojlund choice and Rashford option - Man United's Ivan Toney transfer decision made
Reported Manchester United target Ivan Toney was left out of Brentford's matchday squad for their Premier League curtain-raiser against Crystal Palace on Sunday. The 28-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Bees and Thomas Frank decided to not include him due to "transfer interest".
Toney, who scored just four goals in 17 appearances in the Premier League last season after returning from his eight-month betting ban, has seen his future remain uncertain over the summer. Toney has one year left on his contract and has been subject to interest from Saudi Arabia this week.
Unless he signs a new deal before the end of the window, it does feel like Brentford are going to cash in on the forward and United could re-ignite their pursuit. Erik ten Hag has tried to rectify United's lack of goalscoring power with the addition of Joshua Zirkzee, who scored in their victory over Fulham on Friday.
But with Rasmus Hojlund still out and not expected to return until next month, might United go out and sign another centre forward? That does remain to be seen but Toney is someone that can bolster that front line. With that in mind, our MEN writers debate whether United should sign him or not...
For me, United do not need another out-and-out centre forward this summer. When Rasmus Hojlund does return from his hamstring problem, Erik ten Hag will have enough options to chose from. As well as Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, Bruno Fernandes can be used up front after he started in the 'false nine' role against Fulham. Marcus Rashford, who started on the left wing on Friday, is another alternative if needed.
The only way I could see United strengthening in that position is if they target a different type of profile. Toney does feel