Chelsea look set to perform a dramatic U-turn in the race to sign Ivan Toney after the Brentford striker received a length ban. The 27-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge this season but, following his suspension, doubt has been cast over a potential move.
football.london understand that the Blues are in the market for a new centre-forward who can rejuvenate their fortunes in the final third next term. Toney, who sees his deal with the Bees expire in 2025, emerged as a target for Chelsea, along with Victor Osimhen and Lautaro Martinez.
The England international has rubbed shoulders with the likes of Erling Haaland and Harry Kane in the golden boot race – scoring 20 goals in 33 Premier League games. However, Toney is set to be on the sidelines until January after he recently received an eight-month suspension from football after pleading guilty to a number of betting offences.
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He will only be able to take part in any team training from September. As a result, the Evening Standard have reported that the Blues will no longer pursue a move for Toney.
The Brentford star looked set to play a starring role in Chelsea's new-look side next season following comparisons to the likes of Karim Benzema and Robert Lewandowski. Ahead of the Bees' clash against West Ham last weekend, Thomas Frank was asked how much Toney could be worth.
"£100m-plus? I love Ivan and it’s fantastic what he has achieved here, and there is more for him to achieve here," said the Brentford boss. "I’m really happy he is a Brentford player. There are some players every time they come up to one level, they kick on and continue.
"He did well in League One, then the Championship, first year [in the Premier League] 12 goals, now he is on 20 and hopefully getting more. What is the limit? He has a very good potential.
"I know he is not 22, but look at some of the best strikers in the world: [Robert] Lewandowski, [Karim] Benzema. It’s like good wine; they just keep getting better.
"What would you pay for a striker that guarantees you 20-plus goals? And this is 20 goals for a mid-table club. What can he do in a bigger club?"
Toney also earned comparisons to that of Didier Drogba. Chelsea were even promised that the Englishman would help the club rival Manchester City for the Premier League title within two years of his arrival! But, if reports are to be believed, the Blues' ship has sailed and it looks like it's heading to Italy...
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