Boss makes huge transfer statement with Chelsea keen on unit

Brentford boss Thomas Frank has sent a clear message to the likes of CHELSEA and Arsenal over a potential deal for Ivan Toney

Despite not being part of that Brentford squad this season because he has been banned – there has been alot of transfer talk regarding the long-term future of Ivan Toney, who is one of the best in the Premier League.

Toney netted 20 Premier League goals last season with Brentford’s asking price ranging from £80million to £100million, as he is considered to be one of the best strikers in the English top-flight.

Toney is still serving an eight-month ban for betting breaches but has returned to first-team training and will be free to play again on 17 January.

Brentford boss Frank would not confirm the club’s valuation during Friday’s press conference but remains convinced his striker will remain at the club this season.

‘I hope not,’ Frank said when asked about the possibility of Toney leaving in January.

‘I want him to stay. Ivan is happy to stay. He is happy at the club. What happens in the future is impossible to guess about.

He continued: ‘He’s a top player, one of our most important players, if not the most important last year. Any player that can score 20-plus goals in the Premier League are very, very important.

‘Ivan’s skillset in terms of finishing abilities with his left and right (foot), heading and his composure in those moments and his link-up play and his presence, character, is a very good package.

‘It’s not (up to) me to put a price tag on him, it’s down to the club. But I’m happy with him, I hope he plays here forever and I’m the coach.’