Manchester United have held initial talks over a late deal for Ivan Toney, but securing a move to Chelsea remains the forward’s priority ahead of Friday’s transfer deadline.
Toney has made clear that he hopes to leave Brentford before the window shuts and the Bees face being forced to settle for a deal some way below their initial £50million asking price, or else risk losing the England international for nothing next summer.
Chelsea are considering making an offer as Enzo Maresca looks to add a new striker to the club’s glut of summer signings, while Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ahli have had an initial bid rejected.
However, Standard Sport understands there have also been preliminary conversations between Man Utd and Brentford over a potential deal.
Negotiations are not yet at a serious stage and the Old Trafford club are yet to make a formal offer, but Brentford are hopeful that any interest could drive a bidding war with Chelsea that would see them secure around £40m for Toney.
The 28-year-old has been left out of Thomas Frank’s squad for the first two Premier League games of the season and the club are concerned about the effect of reintegrating him into the group.
Meanwhile, talks are ongoing between United and Chelsea over a possible swap deal between Raheem Sterling and Jason Sancho.
