Gabby Agbonlahor insists he does not regret claiming footballers would move to Brentford for less money rather than sign for Newcastle United. However, the talkSPORT pundit then went on to suggest the Magpies should move for Bees' striker Ivan Toney this summer.
Agbonlahor has proven to be a controversial pundit among the Toon Army in recent seasons, firstly stemming from his repeated defence of former boss Steve Bruce. The radio commentator believed the head coach 'deserved a chance' after the takeover, despite Newcastle's winless start to the season and their poor form in 2021.
In November last year, Agbonlahor claimed prospective transfer targets would pick a move to recently-promoted Brentford over a St James' Park switch. The former striker insisted players would not want to live in the North East, and would accept lower wages to live in the capital.
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Agbonlahor was asked by fellow talkSPORT presenter Ally McCoist whether he regrets those comments, given the turnaround which has seen Newcastle pull clear of safety. The 35-year-old doubled down on the argument, only to then namecheck Brentford and former Magpies striker Toney as a potential transfer target this summer.
He told talkSPORT: "You know what though, they've done very well. They've turned St James' Park into a fortress, every team that goes there is struggling to get a result.
"The fans are doing great, helping the team along. They will sign some players, but I still think that it depends on what sort of players they are going out for.
"If they're going to try and shop in the same window as Man City and Chelsea, I don't think they will get those players. But, they might start to gradually get there, maybe the likes of Ivan Toney, try and get him in the door."
Reflecting on the Magpies' improved form, Agbonlahor added: "They are coming, Newcastle now. With the backing they've got financially, other teams that are looking to get into European places...give it a couple of seasons, Newcastle are going to be pushing top six."
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