Rio Ferdinand has told his Vibe With Five YouTube channel that Brentford striker Ivan Toney is deserving of the interest of big Premier League clubs amid reports Manchester United, Newcastle and West Ham are all targeting the star.
Toney, 26, has been in incredible form for Brentford this season. The England striker, who was called up by Gareth Southgate in the last international break but not used, has scored eight goals and laid on three assists in 12 games.
Rated at £50million, The Mirror claim that Manchester United, Leeds United, Newcastle United and West Ham United are all showing interest in Toney. He has a contract with The Bees until the summer of 2025 – but he could depart.
Ferdinand gave his verdict, following Brentford’s 0-0 draw with Chelsea on Wednesday night. He lavished praise on the striker, stating he is more than deserving of big clubs showing interest and it would not surprise him if he did move.
“Toney has done enough to warrant the big clubs sniffing. He’s in the bracket where it would not be a surprise if a big club comes in and makes a bid. In the Premier League, he has been fabulous. He deserves all he gets,” Ferdinand said.
FERDINAND: TONEY DESERVING OF MANCHESTER UNITED AND NEWCASTLE INTEREST
Where is his best move? Is it to stay at Brentford, where he is scoring goals on a regular basis in a side that have the capability of pushing for Europe over the next few years? Or is it a move to a bigger club, no disrespect to Brentford?
Ultimately, he should consider a move. West Ham would be a poor one given the signing of Gianluca Scamacca, who is impressing. Newcastle now have Aleksandar Isak and Callum Wilson. Leeds are on a par with Brentford at this stage.
But a move to Manchester United, who will wave goodbye to Cristiano Ronaldo at the end of the season – if not before – would suit Toney. They need a striker like Toney and he would get the games he needs to score the goals.
