Some at Arsenal now have real doubts about signing ‘world class’ player in January

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Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal may not make a bid for Ivan Toney in the January transfer window.

That is according to The Independent journalist Miguel Delaney, who has noted why Arsenal are not 100% sold on the idea of bringing Toney to the Emirates Stadium in the middle of the season.

So, what has been reported about Arsenal target and Brentford striker Ivan Toney? Let’s take a look.

Arsenal hesitating over Brentford striker Ivan Toney

Well, Arsenal have been linked with Brentford striker Ivan Toney. The Mirror reported this month that both the Gunners and Tottenham Hotspur want to sign him.

Toney is not playing at the moment. He is banned. The 27-year-old will be available to play again in January 2024.

The Independent journalist Miguel Delaney has noted in his Reading the Game newsletter (1 pm, December 15, 2023) that although Arsenal are keen on Toney, they are not sure about making a bid for him in the January transfer window.

Delaney wrote: “There are four signings Mikel Arteta feels he needs to complete his ideal squad as it stands. They are another central midfielder, two full-backs and another forward. Arsenal obviously can’t go for all four in January so some compromises may be necessary.

“They will be active, though. Ivan Toney is obviously a name mentioned, with a lot of potential competitors, but there is some hesitation over whether his months of suspension mean he isn’t quite ideal if you want an immediate impact.”

My View: Arsenal should aim for someone better than Toney

In my view, Arsenal should try to sign someone better than Ivan Toney. I do not think that the striker is the one to take the Gunners to the next level.

Yes, we know that Toney scores goals in the Premier League. He has been a star for Brentford. Former Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster has described the striker as “a world-class” player.

The England international striker has scored 32 goals and given nine assists in 68 Premier League matches for the Bees.

However, Toney does not have any experience of playing in the UEFA Champions League. He has also not turned out for an ‘elite’ club.

While I believe that the striker could be a success for Arsenal in the Premier League, I think that the Gunners should look at someone who can also do the business in the UEFA Champions League as well. For example, Victor Osimhen.