Mikel Arteta has already seen one attempt to land a new striker fall short after Arsenal missed out on RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko last month.
Plenty of options remain on the market for the Gunners to explore though, with the likes of Victor Osimhen seeking a move away from Napoli this summer.
Recent reports have also claimed that Arsenal could move for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres over Osimhen due to Napoli’s demands for the Nigerian striker.
However, Ben Jacobs has suggested that Arteta’s men could even return for a target they have cooled their interest in should he become available on a free transfer next summer.
Arsenal could move for Ivan Toney on a free transfer
The Gunners have been long linked with a move for Ivan Toney and the Brentford star is expected to leave the Gtech Community Stadium this summer.
Despite claims that Arsenal have held meetings over signing the England star, Arteta’s men have reportedly been put off a move for Toney.
Now, Jacobs claims that the north Londoners have cooled their interest due to the striker’s price tag and should he run down his contract at Brentford, they could yet reignite their interest.
Speaking on Playback TV, the journalist said: “I’m also told Toney’s not against staying at Brentford for another season then that might bring in free agency. If it does, then Arsenal might return.
“Arsenal are not interested in paying £50 million to £70 million so let’s see what Toney decides because he’s focused on the Euros at the moment.”
Arsenal can afford to wait a year for striker move
Despite underwhelming seasons from Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah last time out, Arteta found a way for Arsenal to continue to thrive in the final third.
Kai Havertz’s impressive 2024 has somewhat relieved the pressure to bring in a top-quality striker as the German led the line brilliantly for the Gunners.
Arsenal also may have other priorities this summer as they are lacking quality depth out wide and in the middle of the park.
Should Toney become available on a free transfer next summer though, it will be intriguing to see if Arsenal revisit their interest in the ‘world-class’ striker.
The 28-year-old has caught the eye at Euro 2024 for England, despite being limited to brief cameo appearances from the bench.
Toney underwhelmed after returning to action for the Bees last season following his nine-month ban from football. But there’s no doubt the Englishman remains a top-quality striker and if he were to run his contract down with the Bees, a move for him would feel like a no-brainer for many top sides.
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