Manchester United have swiftly launched a substantial initial bid for Ivan Toney, following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s designation of the Brentford and England striker as his top summer signing priority, according to a report.
The Red Devils have had a turbulent 2023/24 season and need a win against Brighton on Sunday to secure any form of European football at Old Trafford next season and avoid the ignominy of their lowest ever points tally in the Premier League era.
Currently, Manchester United are on 57 points, and due to an embarrassing negative goal difference, this season is shaping up to be their worst on record since finishing 13th in the old First Division in 1989/90.
Incredibly, they can still salvage some silverware from this disastrous campaign, though few believe they have much hope of beating Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley next weekend. A victory for City would also see Pep Guardiola and his team secure a domestic double.
However, with Erik ten Hag under intense pressure, it’s suggested that the Dutchman will lose his job at the end of the season, regardless of how they fare in the cup final.
In this context, Fabrizio Romano has opened the door for the possible appointment of Thomas Tuchel following his departure from Bayern Munich, and has also explained the factors behind his exit from the German club.
Man Utd launch huge opening offer for Ivan Toney
Regardless of whether Ten Hag stays or leaves, new minority shareholder Ratcliffe has shifted transfer authority away from the manager – whoever that may be – to a team of specialists led by sporting director Dan Ashworth, with support from technical director Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada.
United’s need for a new No 9 has been evident this season. While £72m man Rasmus Hojlund has shown promise with 15 goals in 41 appearances, there have been times when he clearly needed support and a break from the spotlight.
