Blues Consider Late Bid for Brentford Striker as Talks Intensify Over Other Targets

Chelsea are weighing up a potential move for Brentford striker Ivan Toney as the summer transfer window nears its deadline. With just days to go before the window closes on August 30, the Blues are exploring various options for strengthening their attack, with Toney emerging as a key target.

Though no formal bid has been made for the England international yet, Chelsea have shown interest in securing his services before the deadline. Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, however, are currently the only club to have submitted an offer for Toney. The Saudi club, managed by Chelsea’s former sporting director Michael Emenalo, has offered £25m for the 28-year-old, although the deal has yet to be finalised. Brentford, originally seeking £50m for their star forward, may now be open to a bid closer to £40m due to Toney’s contract expiring next summer.

With Al-Ahli’s offer still on the table, Chelsea are reportedly keen to explore the possibility of signing Toney, though any potential deal would need to align with their financial structure. The Blues have also had links with Toney’s fellow striker targets, including Victor Osimhen and Jadon Sancho, as they seek further reinforcements in attack.

In the final days of the transfer window, Chelsea have rekindled talks with Napoli for Osimhen, despite the striker’s preference for a move to Paris Saint-Germain, who are now no longer in the running. At the same time, Chelsea’s interest in Manchester United’s Jadon Sancho has sparked surprise, as the Blues look to bolster their attacking options before Friday’s deadline.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are also offloading several players to trim their squad further, with Trevoh Chalobah, Ben Chilwell, and Armando Broja among those potentially leaving, alongside a number of players already out on loan.

Chelsea’s busy summer has already seen 11 new signings, including a £17m deal for goalkeeper Mike Penders from Belgian side Genk, and a £45m move for Joao Felix. The club continues to work to balance their squad ahead of a new season and looks to secure further signings before the deadline passes.