Manchester United have recently invested £36 million to bring Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna, aiming to bolster their attacking options. However, manager Erik ten Hag is still looking to strengthen his squad and is reportedly keen on signing Brentford’s Ivan Toney, who is valued at around £40 million.
The Quest for Ivan Toney
Ivan Toney, 28, is entering the final year of his contract with Brentford. Despite Manchester United’s recent acquisition of Zirkzee, the pursuit of Toney reflects ten Hag’s ongoing quest for a prolific striker. With Rasmus Hojlund sidelined for the initial weeks of the season, Toney could provide the vital support needed in the attacking third.
Potential Front Three Configurations
If Toney joins Manchester United, ten Hag has several exciting tactical options:
Dynamic Trio: Sancho, Toney, Rashford
Jadon Sancho: After a tumultuous few years, Sancho is poised to make a significant impact this season. Reconciled with ten Hag and returning from a successful loan spell at Borussia Dortmund, Sancho could be a game-changer.
Marcus Rashford: With a direct playing style, Rashford would benefit from Toney’s hold-up play and flick-ons.
Ivan Toney: His physical presence and aerial ability would complement Sancho and Rashford, creating a balanced and dynamic attack.
Pace and Power: Garnacho, Zirkzee, Rashford
Alejandro Garnacho: At just 20, Garnacho was a standout performer last season and could thrive alongside Rashford and Zirkzee. His pace on the flank could provide fresh attacking options.
Joshua Zirkzee: Known for his versatile striking capabilities, Zirkzee could pair well with Garnacho and Rashford, bringing a mix of pace and power to the front line.
Proven Combination: Garnacho, Hojlund, Rashford
Rasmus Hojlund: Despite injuries last season, Hojlund’s partnership with Garnacho and Rashford proved effective. Toney’s potential arrival could relieve some of the burden on Hojlund and enhance the overall attacking threat.
Flexible Formation: Fernandes, Zirkzee, Toney
Bruno Fernandes: Known for his creative playmaking, Fernandes could be deployed in a more advanced role, supported by Zirkzee and Toney. This setup would allow Fernandes to influence the game from a central position, offering flexibility in attack.
Joshua Zirkzee and Ivan Toney: Playing together could provide a dual threat, with Zirkzee’s adaptability and Toney’s target man attributes.
Strategic Implications
Formation Options: Ten Hag’s traditional 4-2-3-1 formation could evolve, incorporating a 4-4-2 diamond with Fernandes as a central attacking force. This setup would allow for a more robust midfield while providing additional support to Casemiro in defensive duties.
Injury Management: With Hojlund’s fitness concerns, adding Toney could reduce the risk of over-reliance on any single player and provide depth for a demanding season.
Conclusion
As Manchester United continues to pursue Ivan Toney, the potential for a revamped attack is significant. Whether Toney joins or not, ten Hag has various strategic options to explore, each offering unique benefits to Manchester United’s tactical approach for the 2024-25 Premier League season. The addition of Toney could be the catalyst needed to elevate United’s offensive prowess and ensure a competitive edge in the league.
