WATCH: Ivan Toney BAGS hat-trick for Brentford B in closed-doors friendly as he prepares for his much-anticipated Premier League return!

WATCH: Ivan Toney BAGS hat-trick for Brentford B in closed-doors friendly as he prepares for his much-anticipated Premier League return!

Ivan Toney scores hattrick. (Image via Brentford's official site)

Brentford striker Ivan Toney has showcased his worth to the club after featuring in a behind-closed-doors friendly match against Southampton. Playing opposite an under-23 year side, he scored a hat-trick and also provided an assist in the side’s 5-1 victory.

Brentford are set to face Nottingham Forest next on the 20th of January. Toney has shut out his critics after being away from Professional football for over four months serving a suspension for breaching the FA’s betting rules.

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He swiftly converted Kyreece Lisbie’s cross just four minutes into the game. Southampton were quick to score an equalizer, but only to be a consolation as Toney expressed his prowess with his head and a powerful near-post finish. Completing his hat-trick, he sends more waves into the transfer market as several Premier League sides show even more interest in signing the striker.

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Toney then provided a sublime pass to Iwan Morgan for his side’s fourth goal with Ashley Hay scoring the final goal of the game. Brentford will be excited to get back the services of one of their finest players. They had earlier pitched over a 100 million euro price tag. Any interested side expressing how highly they value the player, making it complex to complete his move away.

Are Brentford preparing for Ivan Toney’s departure?

Brentford is reportedly preparing for the potential departure of striker Ivan Toney, a target for both Arsenal and Chelsea. Contract negotiations are yet to commence, as reported by The Mirror. Top clubs could lure away Toney, who has 18 months left on his current contract.

Ivan Toney mocks the FA for the eight months ban.
Ivan Toney (Image credits via Brentford FC)

Despite Brentford’s determination to retain Toney during the current transfer window, they seem resigned to his potential departure. The striker, who served a lengthy gambling ban, is a sought-after asset, and potential suitors may need to meet a significant valuation. With figures of £100 million being quoted for the Premier League’s former top scorer.

The Mirror reports that both Arsenal and Chelsea are pursuing striker Ivan Toney, facing challenges in their attacking departments. Chelsea seeks a prolific goal scorer, while Arsenal lacks a reliable center forward. Toney, a key scorer in the previous Premier League season, is coveted by both clubs. Brentford, anticipating his potential departure, emphasizes the substantial financial requirements for Arsenal and Chelsea to secure the transfer.

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