Brentford boss Thomas Frank SHUTS DOWN Ivan Toney exit talks, dealing Arsenal major blow in January transfer plans

Thomas Frank dismisses rumors about a potential move away for Toney!


Brentford boss Thomas Frank SHUTS DOWN Ivan Toney exit talks, dealing Arsenal major blow in January transfer plans

Brentford boss Thomas Frank with Ivan Toney. (Source: Reuters)

Brentford boss Thomas Frank has finally taken moments to address the uncertainty surrounding their star player’s future. Having already solidified the club’s trust in his services at West London, Frank has underlined key points Arsenal and other interested clubs would have to oblige to get Ivan Toney‘s signature.

Frank exclaimed that at first, they would not be interested in parting ways with Toney. However, he said that, to get the board’s attention the sum of money must be very high. And it does not come as a surprise as Brentford have already said to have quoted their English striker at a whopping price of £100 m. Toney is currently spending time away from professional football due to a betting ban. But he is set to make a return at the end of January.

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Yes, he’s staying. It needs to be an unbelievable price, so, he will stay here. He is a Brentford player. I can’t see why we would sell him and I would love to have him for a longer time.
Thomas Frank confirms Brentford have no plans of selling Ivan Toney

Arsenal themselves have struggled to convert their chances consistently throughout the season. Mirroring a strong attacking culture and possession-based game, the team needs swift and sharp attackers who can maximize the chances at their disposal. Irrespective of Bukayo Saka maturing and turning up constantly for his boyhood club, it would be unfair to put all the expectations on his shoulders.

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Toney had maintained a great goalscoring run before facing suspension and Brentford have put forth a minimum tag of 100 million euros. The hefty fee would further complicate the transfer for the Gunners who would naturally have to consider other options as well. Toney had 25 goal involvements last season, and could still be the ideal choice if the Arsenal board decide to open the bank for his arrival.

Arsenal’s alternate targets if Ivan Toney transfer fails

Arsenal will be pursuing alternative striker options during the January transfer window, steering away from the long-standing link to Brentford’s Ivan Toney. According to the reports, the Gunners have now set their sights on Bayer Leverkusen’s center-forward Victor Boniface, making him their top priority.

(L) Evan Fergusson (M) Victor Boniface (R) Marcos Leanardo
(L) Evan Fergusson (M) Victor Boniface (R) Marcos Leanardo. (Source: The Sun/ Bundesliga/ Mirror )

Boniface has also drawn interest from other Premier League clubs, including Everton, West Ham, Brighton, and Newcastle United. Additionally, reports are also surfacing that Arsenal are exploring the prospect of signing 20-year-old Santos forward Marcos Leonardo. Another known target is Brighton’s Evan Fergusson.

Leonardo, known for his penalty area prowess, showcased his skills in the U20 World Cup, presenting Arsenal with an intriguing option to bolster their striking options. As the Gunners navigate the January transfer market, the pursuit of alternative striking options underscores their commitment to securing the right blend of talent to enhance their attacking capabilities and address recent on-field challenges.

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