Arsenal are ‘working on’ a deal to sign Brentford forward Ivan Toney during the January transfer window, with the forward viewed as the missing piece in the club’s title challenge.
Arsenal underlined their title credentials with a 1-0 win over Manchester City last weekend and are level on points with leaders Tottenham after an unbeaten start to the campaign.
The Gunners believe the addition of a proven centre-forward can increase their chances of a first Premier League crown since 2003/04 and are targeting a deal for Toney in the winter window.
TeamTalk are reporting that Arsenal have ‘stepped up efforts’ to sign Toney as the north Londoners look to beat Chelsea to the signing of the striker.
Toney has scored 32 goals in 66 league appearances for Brentford since the club’s promotion to the Premier League and has broken into the England squad under Gareth Southgate.
The 27-year-old is currently serving an eight-month suspension for breaching the FA’s gambling rules but will be free to return to action in January. Toney has returned to training with Brentford as he looks to regain fitness and scored in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Como last week.
The England international is viewed as the ideal addition to an Arsenal squad lacking a prolific presence at centre-forward, with Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah and Kai Havertz having shared the role so far this season. Brentford are understood to value the forward at around £80m.
