Brentford striker Ivan Toney “would struggle” to get a starting place at Manchester United due to Rasmus Hojlund, according to former England international David James.

Toney has been linked with a transfer to United, along with Arsenal and Chelsea, in recent months, but James told GGRecon that the forward may not be an upgrade on Hojlund:

“Manchester United have Rasmus Hojlund at the moment, and he’s been in fantastic form, so does Ivan Toney compliment him up top, or does he replace him?”

“I’m not sure how that would work, so at the moment, whilst Manchester United are showing an interest, I believe they would struggle to find a position for Ivan Toney in their starting eleven.”

Hojlund’s latest injury demonstrates why a new forward must be brought in

The lack of depth up front has been a key issue for United since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo last year. Erik Ten Hag’s side have struggled to score goals in the Premier League this campaign, hitting the back of the net just 35 times in 25 matches.

That record has improved in recent weeks with Hojlund going through a purple patch. However, it has been confirmed that the Dane will now be sidelined for 2 to 3 weeks due to a muscular injury.

Ten Hag has hinted that he may even consider selecting winger Amad Diallo as a striker due to a lack of alternatives.

United are expected to target a senior striker this summer

With Anthony Martial set to leave on a free transfer at the end of the season when his contract expires, ten Hag will have even fewer options to choose from up front.

It is, therefore, very likely that the Red Devils will sign a new No. 9 to complement Hojlund. It remains to be seen, though, whether Toney is their top target.