“Club Chief Anticipates Move for ‘Best’ West Ham Striker Signing in Over a Decade.
David Sullivan to Pursue Ivan Toney with Bargain Offer for West Ham, Says Darragh MacAnthony
On July 19, Peterborough United’s chairman spoke to talkSPORT, suggesting that his West Ham counterpart, David Sullivan, has “always liked” England striker Ivan Toney and might push to test Brentford’s resolve in the transfer market.
Julen Lopetegui and Tim Steidten are seeking a new goalscorer, and MacAnthony believes Toney would be the ideal choice. He remarked, “Knowing David Sullivan’s tendencies at West Ham, he’s always admired Ivan Toney. I’d expect him to attempt to secure him at a discounted rate from Brentford. While Brentford will likely resist, Sullivan is likely to make an effort, and it would be wise of him to do so. It would be West Ham’s best signing in over a decade, especially compared to the past expensive foreign strikers who have struggled.”
Toney, 28, would undoubtedly be a strong addition to the London Stadium, and Brentford’s willingness to negotiate a lower price might be increasing. Recent history shows West Ham’s challenges with high-cost striker signings, such as Sebastien Haller and Gianluca Scamacca, who did not meet expectations. Conversely, even more affordable Premier League options like Danny Ings have not always delivered success.
The situation appears to be shifting in West Ham’s favor. According to The Sun on July 18, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United have all exited the race for Toney. This development may have prompted Brentford to lower their asking price to below £50 million, with West Ham and Tottenham now considered the likely destinations.
Toney has one year remaining on his contract, making it uncertain how much further Brentford will reduce their asking price to avoid losing him for free next summer. Although Jhon Duran was initially identified as a top striker target for West Ham, the club reportedly cooled their interest after making an approach.
At 28, Toney does not fit the profile of a high-value resale asset, similar to 33-year-old N’Golo Kanté, for whom West Ham has also pursued a deal. Despite this, the club continues to explore options, indicating that a move for Toney could be imminent.
