Arsenal plot shock move for England striker

Interim England manager Lee Carsley named his first Three Lions squad on Thursday, with four debutants included. 

Chelsea’s Noni Madueke, Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White, Lille midfielder Angel Gomes and Newcastle United defender Tino Livramento have all been handed their first senior international call-ups ahead of the Nations League games against Finland and the Republic of Ireland.

Notable omissions from the squad include Manchester City full-back Kyle Walker and Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Another player that hasn’t been included is Brentford striker Ivan Toney, despite being part of Gareth Southgate’s squad for the European Championships earlier this summer.

Now, it has emerged that the forward could be the subject of a shock late offer from one of the Premier League’s biggest clubs.

As reported by Football Insider, Arsenal are plotting a sensational late move for the England international.

The forward hasn’t been involved in either of the Bees’ two Premier League games so far this season, and also played no part in their win over Colchester United in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday.

Toney was part of the England squad that lost against Spain in the final of Euro 2024

It is claimed that the Gunners have been interested in the 28-year-old for some time now and are readying a bid with the window reaching its closing stages.

Their decision to move for Toney comes after current Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah agreed a £25 million move to London rivals Crystal Palace, which will free up space in the squad for a new striker.

Toney has scored 72 times in 141 games for Brentford since signing from Peterborough United four years ago, but he is now in the final 12 months of his contract.

He has been linked with a move away from the club all summer, though, and West London rivals Chelsea are said to have made a move to sign the player in the past week or so.

Saudi Arabian Pro League outfit Al Ahli have made bids for the striker this summer, but late interest from two of the Premier League’s biggest sides could spark a bidding war and earn Brentford a decent fee.