Brentford Anticipates Toney’s Departure in Summer – Manager Frank
Brentford manager Thomas Frank has revealed that he expects striker Ivan Toney to leave the club in the upcoming summer transfer window. Toney, who will have one year remaining on his contract at the end of the season, has attracted interest from top Premier League clubs including Arsenal and Chelsea.
The 27-year-old forward recently made a triumphant return to action in January after serving an eight-month ban for breaching gambling regulations. Toney marked his comeback with a goal in Brentford’s 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest. However, despite his successful return, Frank believes that Toney will likely be sold in the summer.
“It is relatively obvious that Ivan Toney will probably be sold this summer,” Frank stated. “It can be ‘expensive’ to sell your best player, but conversely I also know that this summer he only has one year left on his contract with us. We also know what he is worth. I don’t think there are many strikers in the world who are better than him right now.”
Toney’s suspension last year was a result of breaking Football Association betting rules, which included betting against his own team. However, his original 11-month sanction was reduced by three months after he was diagnosed with a gambling addiction. Since his return, Toney has expressed his desire to play for a “big club,” prompting interest from several Premier League clubs.
Despite the speculation surrounding Toney’s future, Frank revealed that the club did not receive any offers for the striker during the January transfer window. However, he expects a flurry of interest in the summer, given Toney’s exceptional skills and prime age for a footballer.
“This winter we actually had no offers for him, but it will surprise me if there aren’t a lot of clubs that will be interested in him,” said Frank. “He is a really skilled striker who is in his prime football age. Personally, as a coach, I would prefer to keep Toney, but one day it could be fun to see him on a top team.”
Toney joined Brentford in 2020 and has since become a key player for the club. He has made 127 appearances and scored 33 goals during the 2020-21 Championship season, helping Brentford secure promotion to the Premier League after a 74-year absence. In the Premier League, Toney has continued to impress, scoring 12 goals in the 2021-22 season and 20 goals in the current 2022-23 season.
Brentford’s struggle in Toney’s absence this season has highlighted his importance to the team. Currently sitting in 15th place in the Premier League, just three points above the relegation zone, Brentford will undoubtedly face a significant challenge if they have to cope without their star striker next season.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Ivan Toney and which top club he will choose to join. His impressive goal-scoring record and undeniable talent make him an attractive prospect for any team in need of a prolific striker. Brentford fans will hope that Toney’s departure can be delayed, but they may have to brace themselves for bidding wars and potential heartbreak if a big-money offer comes in for their star player.