Manchester United have not totally given up on landing Ivan Toney as they weigh up their options.
The Red Devils are among those to be linked with the Brentford frontman, who only has 12 months left on his deal in west London. The Bees want to maximise their profits and have previously quoted a hefty fee - which did put off potential suitors.
But with time no longer on their side Brentford may have to drop their price and United themselves are considering reinforcements in that area following the injury to Rasmus Hojlund, who could be out for two months. Erik ten Hag also wants to ensure he has some experience in the final third with Toney having proven himself as a Premier League marksman.
The forward has been able to make the step up from the Championship with his exploits in the top flight earning him England recognition. In both his full Premier League campaigns he's hit double figures.
Forbes claim that Brentford would now be willing to do business for around £40million - a price that may tempt those at Old Trafford as they look to ensure they are well resourced in their forward line ahead of the new season.
“We are always looking,” Ten Hag has said about the club making new signings. “This new leadership team is really eager to do business. To make deals. They are on it. But we have to wait if the timing is there, if the opportunities are there. I can’t say in this moment but I am sure when they are there, we will go forward.”
Last term a huge burden was placed on Hojlund despite his lack of experience. The Dane was signed with a long-term view in mind but was immediately asked to lead the line on his own, failing to score a league goal until Boxing Day.
His injury leaves Ten Hag light, albeit he has signed Dutchman Joshua Zirkzee. The former Bologna man is not and out and out forward but is not yet up to match sharpness as United consider playing in this weekend's Community Shield with either Jadon Sancho or Bruno Fernandes as a striker.
Ten Hag said: "That is what we can do if we don’t have the availability of Rasmus. Of course, Joshua Zirkzee is coming in. He has started training. But he is not so long in training so it it will take time and he has to adjust to English football and our way of playing. Jadon can, of course, play as a striker. He can also play in wide areas but it could be that he is a good option."