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Chelsea’s busy transfer window has taken another twist, with Brentford striker Ivan Toney emerging as a late target.
As we enter final week of the summer transfer window, the Blues are reportedly keen on securing Toney’s signature.
Toney has been absent from Brentford’s squad for their last two Premier League matches. Manager Thomas Frank attributed his absence to intense transfer speculation surrounding the England international.
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Initially, it seemed Toney was destined for a move to Saudi Arabia, with Al Ahli reportedly agreeing to terms. However, sources revealed on Tuesday that Chelsea have shown interest in the 28-year-old.
The Blues believe Toney could be the perfect addition to their strikeforce, providing the goal-scoring prowess they need. Despite recently signing Joao Felix, manager Enzo Maresca reportedly wants a proven striker to strengthen Chelsea’s attack.
In that light, Super Eagles of Nigeria and Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has been on Chelsea’s radar, but there’s a potential snag. While Chelsea prefers a loan deal, Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, favours a permanent transfer.
With negotiations for Osimhen stalled, Chelsea may turn their focus back to Toney as a viable option. If Toney joins, the Blues might make room by selling another player.
Carney Chukwuemeka, valued at £40m, has been out of favour with Maresca and has not made any of Chelsea’s squad since the start of the season. Barcelona and Crystal Palace have both shown interest in the 20-year-old midfielder (who turns 21 in October).
If either club completes the deal, the No.17 shirt would become available at Stamford Bridge. Toney has worn the No.17 at both Brentford and Peterborough United and may prefer to keep the number.
Though the No.9 shirt is vacant, Toney might choose the No.17 if given the chance.
Tags: Ivan Toney, Brentford, Chelsea, Stamford Bridge, Carney Chukwuemeka, Victor Osimhen, Napoli, Barcelona, Enzo Maresca, Joao Felix, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcnews, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcsports.
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