Arsenal’s summer season switch window noticed the membership linked to a number of strikers, however in the end no new quantity 9 was signed. This has sparked debate, particularly after stories from TBR Soccer by Charles Jones revealed {that a} assembly came about between Ivan Toney and Arsenal’s sporting director Edu within the spring. Nevertheless, the choice was made to not pursue the £40m-rated striker from Brentford. It raises questions as to why Arsenal selected to not strengthen their attacking choices when alternatives like Toney have been on the desk.
Arsenal’s Switch Strategy
All through the summer season, Arsenal have been actively exploring choices to bolster their entrance line. Stories steered the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Victor Osimhen have been thought-about, however a concrete deal didn’t materialise. Ivan Toney, the 28-year-old Brentford striker, seemed to be a critical goal, with Arsenal holding talks earlier within the 12 months.
In accordance with TBR Football, the assembly between Edu and Toney came about round Easter, signalling Arsenal’s real curiosity. But, regardless of this assembly, the Gunners in the end determined to not pursue the switch. It has been speculated that different priorities or a reluctance to satisfy Brentford’s preliminary £60m asking value might need influenced Arsenal’s determination.
Whereas Arsenal selected to drag again, Toney had curiosity from different Premier League golf equipment similar to Chelsea, Tottenham, and Manchester United. Nevertheless, like Arsenal, these golf equipment additionally opted to not pursue the switch, leaving Toney to ultimately safe a transfer to Saudi Arabian aspect Al-Ahli for a reported charge of simply over £40m.
Toney’s Transfer to Saudi Arabia: A Missed Alternative
Many followers and pundits really feel that Ivan Toney deserved a transfer to a prime Premier League membership, relatively than heading to Saudi Arabia. Toney had constantly impressed throughout his time at Brentford, and his need to play on the highest stage was well-documented. But, his transfer to Al-Ahli, whereas financially profitable, is seen as a step down when it comes to footballing status.
As TBR Soccer factors out, “It’s a disgrace that Toney couldn’t get a greater transfer as a result of he’s actually worthy of enjoying on the highest stage within the Premier League.” Given his high quality and potential, there’s a sense that the Premier League has misplaced out on a prime expertise, notably as golf equipment like Arsenal might have benefitted from his talents in entrance of objective.
What Might Have Been for Arsenal
Wanting again, Arsenal’s determination to not signal a brand new striker may very well be questioned, particularly if their goal-scoring type dips because the season progresses. Ivan Toney, along with his Premier League expertise and confirmed potential, might have offered the Gunners with a special dimension in assault. His power, aerial presence, and ending potential would have complemented Arsenal’s fluid attacking type.
Nevertheless, Arsenal could have determined to concentrate on different areas of the squad or watch for higher alternatives out there. With Toney’s transfer now confirmed, consideration will seemingly flip to how Arsenal’s present choices carry out because the season unfolds.
Our View – EPL Index Evaluation
From an Arsenal fan’s perspective, it’s comprehensible to really feel disillusioned that the membership didn’t push for a take care of Ivan Toney. With the Gunners aiming to compete on a number of fronts this season, together with the Premier League and Champions League, including a confirmed Premier League striker like Toney might have been a masterstroke. His potential to carry up play, win aerial duels, and supply a medical edge in entrance of objective might need been precisely what Arsenal wanted to strengthen their title problem.
Whereas the choice to not signal him could have been influenced by Brentford’s preliminary £60m asking value, the truth that Toney ultimately moved for simply over £40m may very well be seen as a missed cut price. Followers could query whether or not Arsenal’s hesitance within the switch market will come again to hang-out them, particularly if objectives turn out to be a problem later within the marketing campaign.
That mentioned, Arsenal’s technique out there has typically been prudent, and it’s attainable that they see long-term worth in ready for a special profile of participant. Solely time will inform whether or not passing on Ivan Toney was the correct determination. For now, it’s a ‘what if’ second, with the hope that the present attacking choices can ship on the excessive expectations set for the season.
