EFL Transfer Notebook: Toney clause truth emerges as Newcastle eye Leeds star

04 January 2024 , 06:30

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Ivan Toney could be on the move in the January transfer window (Image: Getty Images)

The transfer rumours are flying now that the January window is open, and our focus is on the 72 clubs up and down the EFL pyramid who are looking for those juicy early deals to start 2024 with a bang.

Here are the latest transfer headlines, gossip and exclusive news for teams in the Championship, League One and League Two, along with transfer analysis from our EFL 72 team...

Truth behind Toney's remarkable Posh clause claims

Ivan Toney could be on the move this month with the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea on the lookout for a new striker. Toney joined Brentford from Peterborough United in 2020 for a cool £10million, and there had been suggestions that his former club could be in for a winter payday courtesy of a 30 per cent sell-on clause.

However, Peterborough chairman Darragh MacAnthony denies that his club will benefit from such a clause, suggesting "nobody" would be able to negotiate a deal like that as a selling club.

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EFL 72 says:There's no doubting EFL clubs could benefit with more aggressive sell-on clauses, but £10m was a handy fee for Toney at the time - even if the England international could go for over seven times that amount this year.

Will Leeds keep star man amid Newcastle links?

Leeds United are in a tough spot, with three defeats in their last six games leaving the Lilywhites seven points off the automatic promotion spots. They are still among the favourites for a play-off spot, but some of Daniel Farke's players may be wondering whether to stick or twist in January. Crysencio Summerville has 18 goal contributions from 24 league games so far, and Newcastle United are said to be interested.

Leeds Live reporter Dom Howson states that United must keep Summerville at all costs, writing: "Their resolve could be tested over the coming weeks, but it is imperative to the club's hopes of going up that Summerville stays put. It would send out the wrong message to cash in on him and leave Farke with a major attacking puzzle to solve."

Read more on Leeds' star man right here

EFL 72 says: We agree with Dom - Leeds needs to keep hold of the likes of Summerville or risk being seen as giving up on a top-two finish - and any further loss of form could well put their play-off hopes at risk as well.

Boro set to raid Villa

Michael Carrick recently said that Middlesbrough will only be tempted into the market if potential signings fit the club's philosophy - a level-headed approach during what is usually a barmy month. It appears as though Carrick have identified such a target, with Plymouth Live reporting that Boro are closing in on a £2.5million move for Aston Villa midfielder Finn Azaz. Azaz is currently on loan at Plymouth Argle, and that temporary spell would be cut short if the transfer goes through.

EFL 72 says:Azaz has excelled as an ever-present for Argyle this season, and £2.5m looks a real steal at this level if he can boost Boro's promotion hopes.

How Birmingham players reacted to Rooney exit

The search for Wayne Rooney's successor as Birmingham City manager continues, with a six-man shortlist reportedly put together. It appears as though the City squad was glad to be shot of the Manchester United and England legend, with reports that the players reacted with 'surprise' and relief' following confirmation of Rooney's exit.

EFL 72 says:With just two wins from 15, it's no surprise City players are relieved Rooney has gone - though they will also need to look at themselves; it is never just the manager who is to blame for that sort of form.

Stoke 'keeper situation develops amid calls for fresh faces

Over to Stoke City now, and the Potters are on the lookout for a goalkeeper. Since Mark Travers was recalled by parent club Bournemouth in October, City are light between the sticks and have been linked with back-up Leicester shot-stopper Daniel Iversen after making a loan enquiry. Tavers could technically return to on loan considering he can't play for anyone else other than Stoke or Bournemouth this term, so watch this space.

Arsenal lose eight players and sign three as January transfer window closes

Meanwhile, the Potters have been told to find 'electric pace' in the window by our panel of experts at Stoke on Trent Live - and you can see more of their transfer discussions right here.

Tom Doyle