Ivan Toney Fails Secret Medical Due to Rare Condition: 'So Confused

Ivan Toney is hoping that a failed medical doesn't derail yet another transfer, following a past move to Wolves that fell through.

The Brentford striker is drawing interest as the summer transfer window nears its end. Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca, has identified him as a potential solution for their striker shortage. Saudi clubs are also in the mix, with Brentford possibly willing to sell given Toney's contract expires in a year. Regardless of where he might end up, Toney is eager for a smoother transition compared to his previous experience.

Back in 2015, while making headlines with Northampton in League Two, Toney was close to joining Wolves. However, a previously undiscovered medical condition halted the transfer. Reflecting on the situation during an appearance on The Diary of a CEO podcast last year, Toney recounted: “Before I was going to Newcastle, I was supposed to join Wolves. I was there, met everyone, got my squad number, took the pictures.

“Then, during the contract discussions, there was some confusion with my agent and the club. Eventually, they informed us they weren't proceeding with the deal due to a diagnosis of scoliosis in my back.”

Toney expressed his bewilderment, saying, “It was confusing—getting the squad number, meeting everyone, and then being told I had scoliosis and that they no longer wanted to sign me. It felt like there might have been more to it.”

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The diagnosis was severe enough that Toney was warned he might need to consider retiring before age 30. He shared, “A specialist told me I'd be lucky to still be walking at 28.

“It doesn't really register. At the time I'm 18 and thinking I'm fine now and enjoying football now. Being 27, closer to 28, you think, I'm strong, fit and healthy, touch-wood I can continue as this.”

Ultimately, it was Newcastle that secured Ivan Toney's services. However, he didn't get much of an opportunity at St James' Park and was loaned out to several EFL clubs.

Toney later left Newcastle permanently for Peterborough before joining Brentford in 2020. Since then, he has made a significant impact, scoring 72 goals in 141 appearances for the Bees across all competitions.