The hopes of Erik ten Hag and Manchester United may very well hinge on landing Ivan Toney. The post-Sir Alex Ferguson era has been anything but smooth. However, an FA Cup Final win last season was enough to secure some form of cushion for the manager. It's unknown what success will look like. But one aspect is certain. The style and way in which the club plays needs to go up.
Too often games were played in which the Red Devils were thoroughly outmatched and outclassed. Unfortunately, this was not only the case against the best teams in the English Premier League, but it was also true against squads that should have been easy, convincing victories. Top to bottom, there's a lot of room for improvement in the upcoming campaign.
Furthermore, it's well-known who the number one target is for most clubs looking for a proven attacking option. Toney, is a hot name, and there is something of a sweepstakes going on. Any club that's looking for a boost wants from the Englishman. It seems like a no-brainer. Particularly for a club that has lacked consistent goal scoring and creativity up top, adding the current Brentford player seems like a gift from the heavens.
In fact, it's such a foregone conclusion that he's the perfect fit, that AI software sees him as the best available person to turn the tide. Moreover, according to SportsCasting, it isn't particularly close. Also, according to the picks from the artificial intelligence selections, the massive deal is expected to happen, and it seems like fans are only waiting for formalities at this point.
Unfortunately, clubs throughout the EPL have seen similar stories and projections, even before the advent of heavy AI usage in sports, completely fall apart. In fact, too often, a clear 'obvious' pick ends up failing to live up to expectations for a variety of reasons. At this point it's unknown if Toney would even accept an offer, or if a last-moment intervention would prevent a deal from taking place.
Reasons for caution in Ivan Toney talks
Models and computer algorithms are ultimately based on one thing: the recognition of human patterns. The programming is based on whatever a human views as correct. And yes, learning takes place, even beyond the abilities of the creator, but what's ultimately being studied is the history and likelihood of the actions of a group of people. Therefore, there is always going to be at least a non-zero chance of any pick being completely wrong.
It's unknown how the forward will wake up one day, how he receives potentially, formerly unknown information, or if he just wants to skip over the hassle of moving one day. Long story short, until the contract is signed, and he steps foot in Manchester, anything is on the board. That being said, him replacing Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford as the unquestioned starting number nine would do wonders for what is otherwise often a pedestrian attack.
Due to the need, financial backing, and apparent mutual interest, it's clear why a software, pundit, or casual fan would select Toney as the top free agent for the club. However, this is all speculation; perhaps it's fact-based, but still an educated guess at best. Regardless, there is one aspect nothing will be able to account for. Players changing locations affect everyone differently. Part of why big-time transfers often flop is due to the behind the scenes.
Ten Hag and the forward just may not get along, or see eye-to-eye. The rest of the roster may become jealous and hold a grudge, or the Old Trafford atmosphere and pressure could prove to be too much. Again, there are a series of unknown human qualities to consider, and until Ivan Toney makes the move and starts to get comfortable, it's best to tame any and all expectations.