Ivan Toney, the Brentford striker who has been the subject of intense transfer speculation this summer, appears set to move to Saudi Arabia, dashing hopes of a Premier League switch to Arsenal or any other English club.
The England international had been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, as well as to Chelsea and Manchester United.
Mikel Arteta's Arsenal had been identified as a potential destination for Toney given their lack of a traditional striker. The Gunners have been relying on Kai Havertz or Gabriel Jesus to lead the line as a false nine, but with Jesus recently sidelined due to injury, the need for a dedicated striker seemed pressing.
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Arsenal's forward dilemma as Toney chooses Saudi Arabia
However, Toney's decision to agree on personal terms with Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli changes Arsenal's plans. According to reports, Al Ahli's vice-chairman Saad Al-Lazeez and sporting director Michael Emenalo are finalizing the deal in London.
Toney's absence from Brentford's opening Premier League matches, including their 2-0 loss to Liverpool, added fuel to the transfer speculation. Brentford manager Thomas Frank remained tight-lipped, stating: "Things are going on with transfer speculation... He is training well, there is no problem."
Despite this setback, Arsenal have strengthened their squad in other areas. They secured goalkeeper David Raya and signed Italian talent Riccardo Calafiori, with Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad reportedly completing a medical.
Arteta has expressed satisfaction with the club's transfer activity but acknowledged the shortage in attacking options. Speaking after a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa, Arteta said: "We are really happy with the squad we have. It is true we have an injury with Gabriel Jesus... If we can do something, we will do it."
With Toney out of the picture, Arsenal may need to explore alternative solutions as they prepare for the challenges ahead in the Premier League season.
