Ivan Toney transfer saga takes shock new twist as Man Utd look to hijack Chelsea's move for Brentford star

Manchester United have reportedly launched a late bid to hijack Chelsea's pursuit of Brentford striker Ivan Toney.

According to The Standard, United have held initial talks with Brentford over a late move for the England striker.

Toney is understood to favour a move to Chelsea, and according to Sky Sports, Enzo Maresca's side have made an official offer.

However, the club will not be able to match the £400,000 per week wages reportedly offered to Toney by Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.

Chelsea remain the front-runners to sign the 28-year-old at this stage after Al-Ahli had an opening bid rejected by Brentford.

Chelsea are still confident of signing Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, with talks between the two clubs continuing on Wednesday. Toney is regarded as a back-up option.

Toney has entered the final 12 months of his Brentford contract and has made it clear that he wants to leave the club. Brentford manager Thomas Frank left the striker out of his match day squad for his side's opening two Premier League matches this season.

The Bees had initially given Toney a £60 million price tag, but will likely have to accept a knockdown fee in order to avoid losing him for nothing next summer.

Toney joined Brentford from Peterborough in 2020 and has scored 72 goals in 141 games for the club.

While Chelsea divide their attention between Toney and Osimhen, United could capitalise and get a deal done quickly before Friday's transfer deadline.

United have made four signings this summer and are set to complete the £42.3m signing of midfielder Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain.

Ten Hag's side have also held exploratory talks with Chelsea over a potential move for Raheem Sterling, a deal that could see Jadon Sancho move in the opposite direction.