A significant development has emerged regarding West Ham’s pursuit of Ivan Toney, the former Brentford striker. In recent discussions, key journalist Alan Nixon has highlighted that West Ham is not just interested in Toney but is actively working on a potential deal.
West Ham’s Need for Striker Reinforcements
West Ham United has been struggling to find a reliable striker since the departure of Niclas Füllkrug. Their new head coach, Nuno Espírito Santo, recognized the team’s pressing need for a forward during a recent match against Everton, where Füllkrug’s performance was underwhelming.
- Füllkrug failed to make an impact against Everton.
- He retained his place in the starting lineup against Arsenal but remained ineffective.
- Nuno substituted Füllkrug for 20-year-old Callum Marshall, signaling a shift in management strategy.
Nuno has expressed his expectations to the club’s owners for reinforcements in January. The Hammers are reportedly exploring various options, including Joshua Zirkzee, Chris Wood, and Real Madrid’s Endrick. However, Ivan Toney remains a primary target.
Latest Developments on Ivan Toney
Toney made headlines with his lucrative move to Al-Ahli, where he commands a staggering £600,000 per week, tax-free. Despite his impressive record of 38 goals in 54 appearances since the start of the last season, his position in the England squad appears jeopardized by this Saudi stint.
As the World Cup approaches, Toney is reportedly eager to improve his chances of selection by returning to the Premier League. Multiple sources, including talkSPORT and TeamTalk, indicate that West Ham is considering a loan arrangement for Toney.
Working on a Potential Loan Deal
Recent insights from Alan Nixon suggest a shift in West Ham’s strategy regarding Toney’s potential transfer. While there were initial concerns about Toney’s happiness in Saudi Arabia and tax implications in Britain, West Ham is now actively seeking a solution.
- West Ham is exploring financial arrangements to facilitate a loan deal.
- They may cover a significant portion of Toney’s wages.
- Nixon’s report emphasizes Toney’s willingness to consider a loan to enhance his England squad prospects.
This positive development provides hope for West Ham as they navigate the complexities of acquiring Toney. By securing a forward like Toney, West Ham aims to bolster their squad and enhance their standing in the Premier League.
