Ivan Toney admits he has always loved how Arsenal play
Brentford striker Ivan Toney has admitted that he has always liked how Arsenal played, with the passion of the fans also a huge attraction.
The England international is a Liverpool fan, but he did not hesitate to name-drop the Gunners when asked about the team he grew up supporting.
Toney is currently serving an eight-month ban from the FA for betting offences and is not expected back in action until January 2024.
“I have been a Liverpool fan my whole life but from young I have liked Arsenal,” the 27-year-old said on the Diary of a CEO podcast.
“I have liked watching Arsenal from how they play. How passionate the fans are.”
Toney bagged 20 league goals in 33 games last term after ending his debut Premier League campaign with 12 goals.
He notched 31 goals in 45 Championship games in 2020-21 to help Brentford secure promotion, first earning a call-up to the Three Lions in September 2022 before making his debut in March.
Arsenal could do with such a proven hitman, and he will not be short of suitors in January or next summer from the look of things.
The Gunners have Gabriel Jesus as their first-choice striker, but the Brazil international is currently out of action and has battled injuries since joining from Manchester City last summer, and manager Mikel Arteta has often had to improvise in his absence.
Eddie Nketiah started the game against Nottingham Forest last weekend, but Kai Havertz could replace him in the line-up for the Crystal Palace trip.
Arsenal need more quality finishers if they want to mount a strong challenge across all competitions, and Toney could be open to a move given his love for the club and the fans.
The North London club recently snapped up Spain international goalkeeper David Raya on a season-long loan from Brentford, which could make things easier if they choose to do business with them going forward.
What the future holds for Toney is unknown as he could have been playing for another club right now were it not for his ban, and it remains to be seen if Arteta has any plans to sign another striker anytime soon.
