Ex-Premier League defender Michael Dawson (Picture: Sky Sports) Michael Dawson has expressed his surprise that big-spending Chelsea have not signed a player linked with Manchester United and Arsenal ahead of the transfer deadline.

Chelsea completed their 11th summer signing earlier this week and have brought the likes of Joao Felix, Pedro Neto, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Tosin Adarabioyo to Stamford Bridge during the current window.

The immense outlays has not stopped Chelsea from exploring more deals before Friday's transfer deadline, with Manchester United flop Jadon Sancho linked with a sensational switch to west London.

Another player who could be the subject of interest from Chelsea is Brentford striker Ivan Toney and ex-Premier League defender Dawson is surprised he has not already moved to the Blues.

Toney has repeatedly admitted he is open to leaving Brentford, the club he has scored 72 goals in 141 appearances for.

Brentford wanted around PS70m for the 28-year-old but have slashed their asking price as we approach the end to the summer transfer window.

Toney was left out of the club's Premier League opener against Crystal Palace following substantial interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia.

That stance has put Chelsea on high alert, although the Blues may also face competition from Manchester United, who reportedly opened talks with Brentford on Tuesday to discuss a possible deal.

Chelsea's London rivals Arsenal have also been linked with Toney, with Alan Pardew claiming the player's agent is pushing for him to join Mikel Arteta's Gunners.

'When he got left out last week, that was a surprise to me with the new signing [Igor] Thiago being out for a long period. Brentford are trying to get money as he is going into his final year.

'You are getting goals. Guaranteed in a Brentford team - 12 months ago, people were talking about him being an PS80m player. I am disappointed. There are a lack of centre-forwards and goalscorers out there.'

Chelsea are open to signing a new striker following Nicolas Jackson's underwhelming first season in the Premier League.

Long-term Blues target Victor Osimhen is another option and is said to be keen on a move to the Premier League despite being offered a lucrative switch to Saudi Arabia.

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