Transfer Talk: Potential Toney replacements should Bees ace leave

Brentford's Ivan Toney is a man in demand this January. 

The 27-year-old striker is set to return to football after an eight-month betting ban — and suitors are already lining up. 

But long-term injuries to Bryan Mbeumo and Kevin Schade, as well as the absence of Yoane Wissa for the Africa Cup of Nations, have left the West Londoners short in attack.

As the Bees prepare for an FA Cup showdown with Wolves this evening, we consider who could replace Toney should he exit the club.

Serhou Guirassy

Serhou Guirassy has enjoyed a phenomenal 2023-24 Bundesliga season. 

Only Harry Kane (21) has scored more goals than the Stuttgart striker (17) — 14 of which have come from open play. 

Guirassy has also created 24 chances, which ranks second for centre-forwards in the German top flight.

With a reported £15million release clause, Brentford could easily acquire his signature and strengthen in other areas. 

But they would likely have to fight off interest from a number of Premier League rivals including West Ham.

Eddie Nketiah

Eddie Nketiah could reportedly be on the move this January to help fund Arsenal's search for a striker. 

Despite delivering some impressive performances when stepping in for Gabriel Jesus last season, the 24-year-old has continued to act as a back-up for the Brazilian. 

And Brentford could capitalise on the situation with an immediate replacement coming the other way as the Gunners' interest in Toney grows. 

Nketiah has scored five goals in the Premier League this season despite not enjoying a sustained run of games, roughly in line with his expected goal tally of 4.07. 

Three of those strikes came in a hat-trick against Sheffield United. 

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was full of praise following the match against the Blades and pointed out his striker's need for playing time. 

He said: "He's [Nketiah] got an eye for goal. You look at his stats from the last 10 years. What he's done is remarkable. 

"He needs minutes, opportunities and service. If he gets that, Eddie is going to score goals, that's for sure." 

While Arteta has spoken of keeping the forward, the prospect of more playing time in West London could well appeal to Nketiah.

Lyle Foster

Lyle Foster could be another exciting option for Brentford. 

Following a leave of absence for his mental well-being, the 23-year-old is back among the goals for Burnley. 

He bagged his fourth of the season against Aston Villa — more than any of his team-mates despite missing several matches.

Like Toney, Foster is an all-round forward, registering three assists and winning 24 of his 55 aerial duels this term. 

With the South Africa international missing out on the African Cup of Nations, he would be able to make an immediate impact and still has room to develop.