Ivan Toney makes step towards next move as Arsenal reach decision on transfer

25 August 2023 , 08:00

1016     0

Ivan Toney makes step towards next move as Arsenal reach decision on transfer

Brentford striker Ivan Toney has signed for super agent Jonathan Barnett’s CAA Stellar agency.

It comes just days after Toney admitted he could be interested in a move to a big club as he admitted his admiration for Manchester United, Liverpool and the Gunners.

Toney, 27, one of the most sought after strikers in the Premier League, is currently serving an eight-month ban after admitting breaching strict FA betting rules. He gave a searingly honest interview on the Diary of a CEO podcast in which he talked about being trapped in a “football prison”, the pain of missing out on the World Cup but also his future and his dream of moving to a big club.

Former Newcastle and Peterborough striker Toney has 18 months left on his current deal at Brentford who have stood by him and want to give him a new contract. But Toney’s switch to one of football’s best known agencies will be seen as a significant step.

Toney said: "It is very timely for me to be joining CAA Stellar. It feels like a fresh beginning. Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction."

Chelsea complete record-breaking Enzo Fernandez transfer after deadline day rush

CAA Stellar executive chairman Barnett said: “I am very excited that we have signed Ivan. He is a great talent and I am sure this is the beginning of a fantastic future for him.” Barnett’s fellow executive chairman David Manasseh said: “We are happy that Ivan has placed his trust in Jonathan and myself, and we take such responsibility very seriously.”

Ivan Toney has signed with a new agency, CAA Stellar (CAA Stellar)

Toney joins CAA Stellar’s host of clients which includes England stars Jack Grealish, Ben Chilwell, Kalvin Phillips, Luke Shaw, Jordan Pickford, Nick Pope and James Ward-Prowse. They have overseen big money deals for the likes of Grealish, Chilwell, Pope and Ward-Prowse.

Now, despite being banned, Toney could be in line for a big money January switch, with a host of Premier League clubs keeping tabs on the sought-after striker.

Arsenal and Tottenham have both been tipped as potential destinations in the New Year. Gunners chief Mikel Arteta is still in the market for an out-and-out goalscorer, while Spurs are seeking a replacement for Harry Kane.

Toney appeared to open the door to a switch to Arsenal during his recent interview with Steven Bartlett. When he was asked about growing up as a Liverpool supporter, he said: "Yeah, I've been a Liverpool fan my whole life but from young, I've liked Arsenal. I've liked watching Arsenal. I like how they play and kind of how passionate the fans are."

John Cross