West Ham United: Fabrizio Romano shares Ivan Toney transfer update as Brentford stance emerges
West Ham United and Brentford have not yet entered concrete negotiations over a potential transfer for England striker Ivan Toney, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Reports have emerged in recent days suggesting that David Moyes’ Hammers have become serious contenders in the race to secure the England international’s signature during the summer transfer window [Alex Crook, 28 March].
However, transfer specialist Romano has suggested nothing has yet been decided at the London Stadium, but he does admit Brentford will be keen to resolve the England international’s future ahead of the European Championships.
Writing in his Daily Briefing column (2 April) he said: “I’ve no concrete update yet on the Ivan Toney situation, despite new reports that West Ham have become surprise favourites in the race for the England international.
“I’m not aware of any concrete negotiations at the moment with any club, just some interest of course for a very good player like Toney, but it’s still early for the strikers’ domino effect.
“We heard many things about Toney in the recent months but he wasn’t close to leaving in January. They will to sort his future before the Euros, but it’s not something guaranteed at this stage.”
Will West Ham United win the transfer race for Brentford star Ivan Toney?
West Ham have needed a new number nine for some time at the London Stadium and Toney would certainly fit the bill and strengthen the Hammers’ striking options ahead of the new season.
While Michail Antonio has been impressive in recent weeks and Jarrod Bowen has shone when played out of position this term, neither player is the sort of consistent number nine that a team fighting for Europe need in the Premier League.
Toney has an excellent goal record in the Premier League and will likely not be short of potential suitors in England’s top flight and beyond this summer. Whether the Hammers can or will win that race remains to be seen, but they appear to be in the running.
Hopefully, the Brentford forward’s future will be decided ahead of the Euros as Romano has suggested as that would be an excellent start to the transfer window for the Hammers, especially if it coincides with a decision on Moyes’ long-term future.
In other West Ham news, Jeff Stelling has slammed Fabian Schar for what he did against the Hammers at St James’ Park
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