Arsenal legend Ray Parlour does not believe that Ivan Toney would hit the ground running if he is signed by the Gunners in January.
The 27-year-old has not played a competitive game since the end of last season due to a ban for betting infringements. His suspension comes to an end on January 16th but, Parlour told bettingsites.co.uk that it may be a while before we see the best of the striker:
“I know Ivan Toney has been mentioned as an option [for Arsenal] given he’ll be able to play again by then, but he won’t have played for a while and it will take him five or so games to get back into the rhythm of playing every week, so it’s not that simple.”
“If Arsenal do bring someone in in January, Eddie will still be there, he’ll still play a massive part, as much as Jesus, but if you’ve got another option then that could make all the difference to Arsenal’s title challenge.”
“We all know scoring goals wins you games so that’s why Arsenal will want to look into that in January if things are not going too well up front.”
Parlour does have a point about Toney
If the Gunners are right in the middle of a title challenge, it would be a risk shelling out on a striker, who may need a while to get up to speed.
Manager Mikel Arteta would have to be absolutely sure that Toney can adapt and make an impact as soon as he arrives at the Emirates.
Other clubs will also be pursuing the Arsenal target
It is believed that both Chelsea and Manchester United are keen on securing Toney’s services as well, which could complicate matters.
Brentford are expected to play hardball in negotiations and the more competition there is for the England international, the higher the cost of the transfer could be. Reports claim that the Bees may look to hold out for as much as £80m, which may price the Gunners out of a move.
