Reports suggest that Brentford could lose out on tens of millions of pounds due to Ivan Toney’s impending ban for betting breaches. The striker has been charged with 232 alleged breaches between 2017 and 2021, with another 30 added a month later. Toney has admitted to many of the charges, but has contested others. Sky Sports reports that Toney is expected to be banned for a minimum of six months, which could impact Brentford’s plans to cash in on their star man in the summer.
Toney has been a key player for Brentford, scoring 26 Premier League goals across the last two seasons. His performances have attracted interest from a host of top clubs, with his valuation reportedly at £50m. However, with the impending ban, his value could dwindle, and he will only have two years left on his current five-year deal worth around £20,000-a-week when he joined from Peterborough in 2020.
Toney is also expecting a significant pay rise if he is to sign new terms with Brentford. Manchester United and Newcastle are two clubs said to be keen on the striker, who used to be on the Toon’s books between 2015-2018. Brentford boss Thomas Frank has backed Toney, following his striker’s complaints about his guilty plea being revealed by Sportsmail. Frank expressed disappointment with leaks in a confidential case and the timing of them just before the international break.
The potential loss of Toney could be a significant blow for Brentford, who have been performing well in their first season in the Premier League. The Bees have been praised for their recruitment strategy, which has seen them sign players from lower leagues and develop them into top-flight performers. Toney was one of their most successful signings, and his departure could impact their ability to compete at the highest level.
Brentford will need to consider their options carefully if Toney is banned, as they may need to find a replacement who can replicate his goalscoring form. The club has shown that they are capable of finding hidden gems in the transfer market, but replacing Toney’s output will be a tough task. The Bees will also need to ensure that they can keep hold of their other key players, as they look to establish themselves as a top-flight club.
Overall, the potential loss of Ivan Toney could be a significant blow for Brentford, who have been performing well in their first season in the Premier League. The striker has been a key player for the Bees, and his departure could impact their ability to compete at the highest level. Brentford will need to consider their options carefully if Toney is banned, as they look to establish themselves as a top-flight club.