Arsenal handed massive Ivan Toney transfer boost

Brentford manager Thomas Frank has handed Arsenal a significant boost in their pursuit of Ivan Toney.

Arsenal's interest in Brentford striker Toney has long been well-documented, and they are widely expected to be among the clubs looking to sign the 27-year-old in the summer transfer window.

Having just completed his eight-month global football ban for breaches of the Football Association (FA)'s betting rules, the England international has scored two goals in just three appearances since his return - impressive form after such a long absence from top-level football.

While Brentford were determined to keep hold of their talisman in the January transfer window, Thomas Frank has now sparked light on the rumours that Toney could be headed for a departure in the coming months, which will no doubt be music to Arsenal fans' ears.

Frank expects Toney departure

Speaking ahead of his side's upcoming game against Wolves, Frank admitted: "It's quite obvious that Ivan Toney will most likely be sold in the summer.

"By the summer, he'll only have a year left on his contract with us."

The Dane did, however, offer a warning to interested clubs that Brentford "know what he's worth," and also suggested that there are few strikers better than him in world football - implying that his departure will only come if a huge price tag is met, which was to be expected.

Many reports have suggested that a fee in excess of £100m will need to be offered to tempt Brentford into selling, though there is hope that his deteriorating contract situation could spark a change in the Bees' stance.

An excellent signing

Arsenal have long-craved a prolific striker, and Toney offers that in abundance, having netted an impressive 20 goals last season.

While the finances involved in a possible deal for him would be high, it is a necessary outlay to attract a world-class striker, which the club so desperately need.

Toney has previously hinted at his desire to join Arsenal, and there is something special about signing players who are genuinely passionate about playing for the club, as we saw with the signing of Declan Rice last summer.

A race for his signature

Arsenal are not the sole admirers of Toney, with Chelsea and Manchester United, to name a few, also thought to be very keen on acquiring the services of the forward.

Arsenal will need to act quickly if he is to wear our famous red and white next season, but there is every reason to believe that the club can be successful in concluding a potential deal, especially after warding off interest from Manchester City for Rice last summer.

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