Manchester United have ignored a deal with Ivan Toney in the summer transfer window of 2024. The reason is believed to be that they were not satisfied with the way the English striker put pressure.
The "Red Devils" entered the 2024 summer market with a new striker on the priority list. They were linked with a host of strikers before deciding to sign Joshua Zirkzee. The former Bologna player arrived at Old Trafford for £36 million in July, despite scoring just 14 goals in 2 seasons for the Serie A team.
Before successfully signing Zirkzee, Man United was one of many clubs interested in Toney. However, they have expressed concerns about the move. Therefore, the English striker was not on the final shortlist of Man United, although Toney was initially considered.
According to ESPN, Toney does not fit the standard of striker Ten Hag is looking for. According to the Dutch strategist, he did not put enough pressure on the opponent's defenders.
Toney has been linked with a number of top Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Chelsea. However, neither side tried to sign him from Brentford before the August deadline. The former Brentford striker eventually joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.
Mirror revealed shortly after Toney arrived in the Middle East that he would receive a whopping £403,000 a week, including bonuses. Meanwhile, the Bees also earned £40 million from the deal.
Since then, Toney has scored two goals in his first two games for Al-Ahli, who are currently sixth in the Saudi Pro League.
Zirkzee, meanwhile, had a perfect start at Old Trafford, scoring the winning goal in his debut against Fulham in August. However, the Dutchman has failed to score in the five games he has played in since then.
Man United was boosted by Hojlund's return in the 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace, thereby creating more competition at the front line. The Danish player has missed the opening 4 matches of the Premier League this season due to a hamstring injury.
The problem of goal output has plagued Man United since last season. They conceded more goals than they scored last season. Entering the 2024-2025 campaign, their goals and losses are the same, all due to shortcomings in the attack.
