Manchester United and Chelsea linked with shock loan moves for ex-Barnsley man amid firm Brentford stance

The 28-year-old has repeatedly been linked with a move away from Brentford, who he has represented for the last four years. He has blossomed as the Bees talisman, scoring 72 goals across 141 appearances for the club.

However, he is thought to be open to a move away from the club as he enters the final year of his contract. A host of clubs have been linked with the England international, including Arsenal and West Ham United.

According to The Independent, Brentford are holding out for a £60m fee for their most coveted asset. However, the report claims Manchester United and Chelsea could test Brentford’s resolve with loan offers containing buy obligation clauses.

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Chelsea are said to have been put off by the £60m demand, while there is thought to be an unwillingness to go big on a forward of Toney’s age at Manchester United. A cost-effective deal, however, could reportedly prove attractive.

Toney started his career at Northampton Town, catching the eye of Newcastle United with his exploits for the Cobblers. Newcastle loaned Toney out to Barnsley twice and scored twice in 21 outings for the Reds.

After failing to make the grade at St James’ Park, Toney left for Peterborough United and his prolific record for Posh landed him a move to Brentford in 2020.

Despite intense speculation, Brentford boss Thomas Frank has been firm in his stance on Toney and believes the forward will remain in his squad. He told Sky Sports: "There has been a lot of talk about Ivan for many years, but let's just say over the last six months about whether he will leave this summer.

"So far, he is still a Brentford player, so I think we are getting closer and closer to him remaining a Brentford player. I am getting more and more excited because he is a top player and I love working with Ivan - we have got a fantastic relationship. That's what I think. He will be a Brentford player after September 1.”