Former Arsenal player, Paul Merson believes that Ivan Toney of Brentford “can do a Harry Kane job” for Arsenal and would be a wise summer acquisition.
The north London team acquired Brazil international Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City in the summer of 2022 in order to bolster their No. 9 position with another experienced player.
Eddie Nketiah has filled in for him when injuries have prevented him from playing, and he has scored nine goals for the Premier League title contenders, but there has been speculation of Mikel Arteta adding extra firepower during the upcoming transfer window.
As speculation surrounds Toney’s future at Brentford, Merson believes the 20 Premier League goals scored this season by the England international Toney could be the ideal addition for the Gunners.
In reference to a potential Toney raid, former Arsenal star Merson told Sky Sports:
“If I were Arsenal, I would take him. I don’t see too much difference between him and Jesus”.
“I’d pay the money to get him. He is the perfect fit for Arsenal. While you sometimes can’t go far with Jesus, you can go far with Toney too“. He said
Toney’s price tag, though, could end up being a stumbling block because the 27-year-old frontman was reportedly valued at approximately £40 million last summer and has seen his stock continue to grow since then.
He is also bound to a contract in west London through 2025.