Toney hints at a move as trio of big names are linked with centre-back

3AM’s Premier League transfer rumour round-up features stories on Brentford, Chelsea and Liverpool

Arsenal were left more confused than ever about the Ivan Toney race following his latest TV interview, when the Brentford striker joked about scoring 20 goals from now until the end of the season, winning the Euros and joining Real Madrid.

“We start winning games, we win every game from now until the end of the season,” Toney told Sky Sports. “I’ll score 20 goals, we’ve got nine games left, so we keep nine clean sheets. I’m in the mix for the Euros, and then we win the Euros.

“We’ll just hope things fall into place, If Brentford wants to sell me, they make their money, I move to Madrid and it’s all good.”

3AM verdict: Toney was being facetious – as he has been in the past – but are his true intentions bubbling underneath the surface? The 28-year-old seems to be demanding a move away in plain sight, making light of a situation that will likely trigger Brentford fans.

Chelsea, Real Madrid and Paris SaintGermain are reportedly battling it out for 18-year-old Lille sensation Leny Yoro.

He is widely tipped to become one of the best defenders in world football but Lille are apparently demanding up to £80m. The Evening Standard claim Chelsea, despite their recent struggles, are prepared to challenge other continental heavyweights for his signature.

3AM verdict: If you are a top young player right now, avoid Chelsea like the plague. The uncertainty and chaos around Stamford Bridge is not conducive to developing players into world beaters.

The Athletic claim Liverpool are targeting Benfica technical director Pedro Marques following Michael Edwards’ appointment as Fenway Sports Group’s CEO of football.

Liverpool have had three men in that role in just over 18 months but seek stability to steady the ship once Jurgen Klopp leaves.

3AM verdict: Liverpool will have a fresh feel once the new season comes around. Whether that is for better or worse, time will tell, but Marques would have some job on his hands to maintain their level of success.

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