'A proven goalscorer' - Ex-Super Eagles star Mikel advises Arsenal to sign Toney amid Saudi links

Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has advised Arsenal to pursue a deal for Brentford striker Ivan Toney in the ongoing transfer window amid speculation linking the England international with a possible move to the Saudi Pro League.

Toney was dropped from Brentford's opening match of the Premier League against Crystal Palace on Sunday due to ongoing transfer talks.

Brentford are looking to cash in on the 28-year-old who has one year left on his contract, but the striker's price tag is frightening European clubs.

Al-Ahli, who have in their ranks former Premier League stars Riyad Mahrez, Édouard Mendy and Roberto Firmino, are in talks with Brentford over the signing of Toney.

Considering the wages he has been offered by Al-Ahli, it is thought Toney's head could be turned by the prospect of moving to the Saudi Pro League. 

The Championship Golden Boot winner for 2020-2021, over the past few seasons, had been consistently linked with a transfer to Arsenal, but a move will not be happening in this transfer window.

Manager Mikel Arteta recently stated that Arsenal are not buying a center forward this summer because he has faith in Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz.

Discussing the next destination for Toney, Mikel said on beIN Sports: "I think a club like Arsenal. He has been linked with Arsenal for quite some time now. A club like Arsenal they will need someone like that, a goalscorer.

"Havertz is doing really well but Arsenal will need somebody like that, a proven goalscorer."

Ivan Toney had stops at Northampton Town, Newcastle United and Peterborough United before joining Brentford in 2020.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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