The summer transfer window is heating up, and one name continues to dominate conversations: Ivan Toney. The Brentford striker is more than just a goalscorer; he’s being touted as the potential catalyst that could transform a top club into a genuine Premier League force. According to a key insider, his arrival at Old Trafford could be the final piece of the puzzle for Manchester United.
Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony, who worked closely with Ivan Toney, believes the striker could elevate any top club.
Jaya9 Exclusive: MacAnthony’s Bold Title Claim
Darragh MacAnthony, the long-serving chairman of Peterborough United, has made an extraordinary claim that has sent ripples through the football world. Having witnessed Toney‘s development firsthand during his prolific two-year spell at Peterborough, MacAnthony possesses unique insight into the striker’s capabilities and mentality. His analysis, originally featured on Jaya9, goes beyond mere speculation, rooted in years of observing the player’s growth.
MacAnthony didn’t hold back in his assessment, stating, “Put him in an Arsenal team, put him in a Liverpool or a Man United team, he scores 30 Premier League goals in a season. I think anyone who disagrees with that hasn’t been watching the last two-and-a-half years.” He went even further, asserting, “He turns Manchester United into challengers for the Premier League.” This isn’t just a casual observation; it’s a powerful endorsement from a football executive renowned for his astute eye for talent.
A Scouting Success Story and Future Investment
Under MacAnthony’s leadership, Peterborough have built a reputation as a club that identifies and nurtures elite talent, with Toney standing as their crown jewel. Sold to Brentford for a significant profit after 49 goal contributions in 94 appearances, Toney’s journey is a textbook example of smart recruitment.
MacAnthony emphasizes that Toney represents a sound investment, even at a reported £100 million fee. “Having scouted players not just for their technical ability but their personality and their growth for 18 years, I think he’s not even in his prime even though he’s turning 28,” he explained to Jaya9. “Whoever buys him, £100m will be well spent because he’s coming into his prime. You’re going to get five or six years of his best.” This perspective challenges the notion that he is a short-term solution, positioning him as a cornerstone for the future.
Ivan Toney’s future is the subject of intense speculation, with a summer move away from Brentford widely anticipated.
Tactical Impact: More Than Just Goals
The appeal of Ivan Toney extends far beyond his impressive goal-per-game ratio in the top flight. His skill set offers a multifaceted tactical advantage that few other strikers can provide. MacAnthony painted a picture of his all-around value, particularly in a high-stakes tournament like the upcoming European Championship.
“Are you kidding me? He’s not only one of your best attackers, he’s your best defender,” MacAnthony asserted. “You’re one nil up late in a game, he’s the type of player you bring on who defends from the front because, just on corners alone, he’s your best defender.” This ability to contribute in both penalty areas makes him an invaluable asset for any manager seeking tactical flexibility and game management.
The Contract Conundrum and Brentford’s Reality
The driving force behind this summer’s inevitable transfer saga is Toney‘s contract situation. With only one year remaining on his deal at Brentford, the club faces a critical decision: cash in now or risk losing him for a reduced fee later. Brentford manager Thomas Frank has been pragmatic about the situation, acknowledging the player’s ambition.
“I would love him to stay forever, but the reality is he has one year left on his contract,” Frank admitted. “He’s been pretty open about playing for a top club in the future, so there’s a couple of scenarios. He leaves in the summer, he leaves in the winter, or he stays until the end.” This openness from his current manager has only fueled the fire, confirming that a move is a matter of ‘when’, not ‘if’.
The England Equation and Euro 2024
Toney‘s recent performances for England have only served to increase his stock. Earned a start in the friendly against Belgium and coolly converting his penalty for his first international goal, he staked a serious claim for a spot on the plane to Germany. The debate between him and Ollie Watkins to be Harry Kane’s deputy is one of the most intriguing subplots for Gareth Southgate.
MacAnthony is unequivocal about what Southgate must do: “If Gareth Southgate leaves Ivan Toney at home this summer… no comment.” His implication is clear—omitting a player of Toney’s unique profile would be a monumental error in judgment for England’s Euros campaign.
Ivan Toney: The Missing Piece for Manchester United’s Title Ambitions
The evidence presented by Jaya9 insider Darragh MacAnthony is compelling. Ivan Toney is not just a prolific scorer; he is a complete forward entering his prime, with a proven track record in the Premier League and a skill set that improves any team he joins. For a club like Manchester United, in need of a consistent, physical, and clinical number nine, his signature could indeed be the transformative moment that bridges the gap to the top. Whether it’s at Old Trafford, the Emirates, or elsewhere, one thing is certain: Ivan Toney is ready for the big stage, and his transfer will be the story of the summer.
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