Toney is at the center of the transfer battle between three Premier League clubs, including Chelsea
THREE clubs are ready to fight for Ivan Toney as the player plans an exit for Brentford.
A disastrous run of form has left the Bees just five points above the relegation zone.
With Brentford perilously close to the bottom three, three sides are vying to get into pole position to land the striker this summer.
SunSport understands that Tottenham, Chelsea and West Ham have all expressed interest in signing the 28-year-old.
It comes after Arsenal, who were previously linked with Toney, cooled their interest.
As for Chelsea, the West Londoners know they have to sell before they can buy or risk breaking profit and sustainability rules.
Our source said: “If Brentford drop out of the Premier League, which now seems a real possibility, there will be a race to sign Ivan Toney.
“That’s why some clubs are already taking steps to try to get into pole position and sign the player.”
“It is understood that Chelsea and Spurs both need a number nine and Toney would suit both clubs, but West Ham are now also interested.
“The club believes Toney can be a real statement signer and take the team to the next level.
“West Ham are crying out for a striker who can help turn a good side into one that can really challenge for the Champions League.
“Arsenal are less interested now. Mikel Arteta has a system and a way of playing and he doesn’t think a conventional number nine like Ivan Toney is what they need.”
SunSport can also reveal that Toney is ‘open-minded’ about remaining in the capital after making it clear to his advisers that he does not want to leave the Premier League.
Our source added: “Clubs in Italy and Spain have been following Toney for ages. He is one of the most sought after players in Europe.
“But Ivan is not really interested in moving abroad. He sees his future in the Premier League.
“His priority is to score the goals that save Brentford and cement his way into the England squad.
“But after that there is a general acceptance that he will move on and start at a new club in the Premier League next season.
“It will be a new start and, at the age of 28, the biggest step of his career.”