Arsenal sent Toney transfer message by Brentford as Arteta hatches backup plan

29 December 2023 , 16:34

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Arsenal sent Toney transfer message by Brentford as Arteta hatches backup plan

Thomas Frank has underlined Brentford's desire to retain Ivan Toney and believes the player "wants to come back and be at his best" amid interest from rival clubs.

The forward has been sidelined for months due to a gambling ban but is closing in on a return in the New Year. Even before he was reprimanded Toney was being linked with the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea, who are both looking to increase their firepower.

Arsenal have pushed to the front of the queue and a January move for Toney has been touted, especially with Mikel Arteta lacking a prolific striker. Frank though has spoken glowingly about Toney's attitude in training and insists they have received no offers.

He said: "To get Ivan back will be like signing an unbelievable Premier League striker that is proven at this level. He is training very well and we are looking forward to getting him back. I see the same determination and will power to want to train well and be ready to play. He wants to come back and be at his best.

"I would really like to keep him. I want my best players and from my perspective I don't want to sell him. He is fantastic and an important player for us. He is a Brentford player. We have had no bids, I want to keep him and he is looking forward to returning."

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Without Toney, who was previously tipped for a possible England call-up, Brentford have struggled, winning just five of their 18 league games. Bryan Mbuemo is currently their leading scorer, but he has only notched on seven occasions.

Thomas Frank is ready to welcome Ivan Toney back for Brentford (Getty Images)

The Bees have been prepared to part with their top players, but only for fees that suit them. Arsenal recently negotiated with their fellow Londoners as they signed David Raya, initially on loan, in the summer with a permanent move set to take place when the season ends.

Brentford are poised to demand top dollar for Toney and Arsenal are working with a limited transfer budget having spent around £200m in the summer. As a result alternatives have been sought in the form of Bournemouth marksman Dominic Solanke, who has enjoyed a purple patch this season.

Solanke is among the leading scorers in the Premier League and has already impressed Arsenal scouts with his all-round performances, according to The Star. It is understood that the Cherries would demand a sum in excess of £50m to sell their forward.

Samuel Meade