Newcastle might have to equal their transfer record to sign Ivan Toney from Brentford this summer.
The striker is one of many attacking targets to have been linked with a move to St James’ Park, as Eddie Howe looks to provide more competition for Callum Wilson.
That need for competition was highlighted once again in the defeat to Mainz, with Chris Wood struggling to impose himself on the game.
Newcastle need attacking reinforcements, but will need to splash the cash if they’re to sign Toney. He was first named as a target back in April.
Brentford want at least £40m for Ivan Toney
There have been numerous fees batted about since the Toney rumours emerged. First it was more than £30milllion, then that became more than £50million.
Given the latter figure, it’s no wonder Toney is yet to join Howe’s side.
However, i News have provided an update on Brentford’s situation and the kind of figure they would do business at. They report that the Bees want at least £40million for the 26-year-old.
While that is still a lot of money, it gives Newcastle a number to work towards. ‘At least £40million’ is more accurate than ‘more than £50million’. That could mean anything – £51million, £60million, £100million…
Now the question is whether or not the Magpies should pay it.
Toney fits the bill for Newcastle
A fee of £40million would equal the amount Newcastle spent on Joelinton. So unless Toney is going to turn into an all action midfielder in a few years then it could be a risk.
The striker proved last season how good he can be in the Premier League. He scored 12 times in his first top flight campaign, including one at St James’ Park. Toney felt the wrath of Toon fans that day after he celebrated in front of the Gallowgate by kissing the Brentford badge.
He’s had two wonderful years for Brentford, scoring 31 goals in the Championship in his debut year. His record in the second tier led to Thomas Frank branding him as ‘special‘.
Sadly, he wasn’t seen as ‘special’ at Newcastle. He didn’t get the opportunity to succeed at St James’ Park, and now we must pay the price if we want to re-sign him.
He would be a welcome addition and is within our price range at £40million, but that doesn’t mean a deal is on the cards. Dan Ashworth and co might believe he is worth much less than that, while they also need to find money for a right-sided forward.
Toney ticks a lot of boxes, but the finances involved might still be too much.
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