Manchester United signing Brentford striker Ivan Toney this summer would be a "risk", claims journalist Dean Jones.

The Red Devils are said to be monitoring the 26-year-old, and Jones thinks any deal would be an expensive gamble.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What is the latest news involving Toney?

According to the Daily Mirror, United are currently keeping tabs on Toney after his impressive 2021/22 Premier League campaign.

Last season, the Englishman scored 12 goals in 33 appearances in the top flight, helping Brentford to a 13th-placed finish.

Whether United make a move, though, could depend on what happens with Cristiano Ronaldo and Anthony Martial, the Daily Mirror has also stated.

The former is thought to be keen on leaving Old Trafford, while the latter was allowed to depart United on loan in the last transfer window, so it remains to be seen if he has a long-term future at the club.

As for how much Toney could cost, CBS reporter Ben Jacobs recently told GIVEMESPORT that Newcastle United were quoted £50m when they enquired about signing the Brentford star.

What has Jones said about Toney to United?

From Jones' point of view, United buying Toney for the kind of money Brentford want would be a risk.

Speaking to GMS, the transfer insider said: "It's a little bit of a risk if I'm totally honest. It's a lot of money to get Ivan Toney out of Brentford. Think back to the deal with Ollie Watkins when he left Brentford. He left Brentford for £33m; Toney scored more goals than him in the Premier League last season.

"He's now playing in the Premier League, so you have now got to consider the fact that Toney is probably a better Premier League forward than Ollie Watkins, who already cost £33m before he was that [top-flight] player."

Should United sign Toney this summer?

Not for £50m and definitely not as a replacement for Ronaldo. There is no denying that Toney had a bright 2021/22 Premier League campaign; however, one good season in the English top division probably does not warrant a £50m fee.

As a back-up option, based on what the former Peterborough striker showed last term, some United fans may not say no. But, again, at the price that has been mentioned, it just does not seem worth it.

Before the transfer window closes, United could very well find themselves in the market looking for a replacement for Ronaldo or, alternatively, someone to rotate with the 37-year-old. But given all of the above, it would be a surprise if that man was Toney.