Paul Merson thinks ‘real deal’ player simply can’t secure transfer to Arsenal now

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Both Brentford and Arsenal fans are awaiting the return of Ivan Toney for different reasons.

Brentford, who have now been dragged into a Premier League relegation battle, need some life and spark added to their faltering season.

Whilst Arsenal, after losing 2-0 to West Ham United last time out, are crying out for a player like Ivan Toney in January.

But Paul Merson feels, because of Brentford’s troubles, they have to ‘keep him’ next month, as he told Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports (30/12/23 at 2:15 pm).

Those words were also echoed by former Chelsea midfielder Steve Sidwell, especially if you add in the injuries Thomas Frank’s side have suffered this term.

On January 16, Ivan Toney’s ban will end and the first game he is expected to play is a home clash against Nottingham Forest followed up by a trip to Tottenham Hotspur.

Whilst Arsenal fans dream of securing the talents of a player dubbed the ‘real deal’ during that period.

The Bees will be hoping the 27-year-old can push them away from the danger zone because they are starting to slide down the table at the wrong time. 

“I think they have to keep him, at the moment,” said Merson. “Unless they go and beat Palace. Then I think it gives them a bit of daylight (suffered a 3-1 loss).”

Steve Sidwell added: “They have to keep him. They have missed the two fullbacks for the majority of the season. As well as Mbeumo. And Ivan Toney has been a huge miss.

“Now they are looking over their shoulder and could get dragged into it. It’s absolutely imperative they keep him.”

Big money needed to sign Ivan Toney

The transfer market is inflated and clubs like Arsenal have contributed to that by paying record amounts for Declan Rice.

So, expect the same when and if they go knocking for Toney’s talents.

The England international is still his side’s best player, a proven goalscorer and someone at the peak of his powers.

Surely, if Brentford have to part ways with the player, then it’s going to be for record amounts, which then begs the question if Arsenal have the funds to pay big money for the striker.

There is pressure on Arsenal’s forward line because it’s not firing like last season, which will just increase pressure from the fans that a number nine needs to be brought in.