Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United are reportedly regarded as the frontrunners to sign Brentford forward Ivan Toney.
Having returned from his eight-month betting ban in January, all eyes have been on the England international as he bids to recapture his form from the past two seasons.
As it stands, Toney has only made a mixed impact, contributing four goals and one assist from his 15 appearances in the Premier League.
Furthermore, he does not have a strike to his name since February 17, his level of goalscoring lowering at a time when he is known to be in the shop window.
Toney has just under 14 months remaining on his contract and has little interest in penning a renewal, aware of the interest that remains in his signature.
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Spurs, West Ham emerge as favourites
With the 28-year-old yet to rediscover the kind of form he produced before his suspension, it remains to be seen what fee Brentford will deem to be acceptable come the summer.
Although there has previously been talks of valuations in the region of £80m, that now appears unlikely, regardless of whether Toney improves before the end of the campaign.
According to FootballTransfers, Spurs and West Ham are currently viewed as the most likely destination for Toney.
The report suggests there is a willingness to put forward proposals of up to £50m for the attacker in a bid to tempt Brentford into a sale.
Manchester United are said to be exploring alternatives to Toney, while it is unclear whether Arsenal or Chelsea still retain a high level of interest in the player.
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Would Spurs or West Ham suit Toney?
From Toney's perspective, it is realistic to expect him to want to join a club that qualify for Europe next season.
Spurs currently tick that box, even if it is unclear whether Ange Postecoglou's side will be competing in the Champions League or Europa League.
West Ham's dismal second half to the season has ensured that it is highly unlikely they will finish in the top seven of the Premier League table.
While Spurs are blessed with an array of options in the final third, Richarlison has not always delivered down the centre, and it seems plausible that he will be replaced ahead of 2024-25.
As for West Ham, the Hammers require a long-term alternative to Michail Antonio, or at least further competition with Danny Ings only viewed as a backup squad member.
Darren Plant
