Rio Ferdinand has expressed scepticism about the potential success of Brentford striker Ivan Toney at Arsenal if he were to join the club in the upcoming summer transfer window with a significant ego.
Despite Arsenal prioritizing Toney as their top target in January, a deal failed to materialize due to concerns surrounding profit and sustainability regulations, as Brentford’s valuation of £100 million posed a hurdle.
It is anticipated that Arsenal will renew their efforts to secure Toney’s signature at the end of the season, especially with Brentford manager Thomas Frank acknowledging the likelihood of Toney’s departure.
While Arsenal faces competition from Chelsea and Manchester United for Toney’s services, the English striker has previously hinted that the Emirates Stadium would be his preferred destination.
In response to Toney’s recent eyebrow-raising comments following Brentford’s victory over Wolves, Ferdinand downplayed the significance of his remarks but issued a cautionary message, emphasizing that Toney cannot afford to arrive at Arsenal with a bloated ego.
“He said it in jest,” Ferdinand commented on his podcast regarding Toney’s claim that his manager, Frank, does not want him. “I don’t think he would move like that [with a big ego]. I would be surprised. Remember, he has never played for a big club.”
Acknowledging Toney’s impressive confidence level, Ferdinand added, “He’s going to go there and he will have to be respectful and know where he is in the pecking order. There are some big players in there.”
Addressing Toney’s perceived attitude, Ferdinand emphasized the importance of humility, especially in a dressing room as strong as Arsenal’s. He cautioned that a lack of respect from Toney could destabilize the team dynamic, regardless of any intervention from the manager.
“If he goes into the dressing room, a strong dressing room like Arsenal, and thinks, ‘No one can chat to me’ – that’s where the dressing room will be tested,” Ferdinand remarked. “The manager wouldn’t have to say anything. He would be opened up.”
